Summons for business rates

453676fh

Good afternoon,
I am hoping for some discussion or advice on the following matter but first some background:

My limited company has ceased trading and is in liquidation .However, my business/council rates for the last year of business were not paid by me or my company as we had no funds. We were in a lease agreement that ended many years ago and continued on a month by month agreement. I had no owner’s interest in the business premises.

I have now received a summons from the local council for a court appearance for the full amount of rates for that year.
Obviously I am in the process of speaking to a solicitor but was of the understanding that the rates stayed with the property and didn’t follow the previous tenant.

Has anyone any insight into a similar situation or have any experience of going to court to dispute outstanding rates after a business closure, and if so what was the outcome.

I am sure in the current economic climate this is happening more and more , but councils didn’t normally chase tenants, but as they are becoming more strapped for cash they are perusing the tenants in desperation for recovery of funds.

If any one has had a previous experience or has some knowledge of this area I welcome a discussion. I intend to attend court and state my case and contest in full.
thank you

thlint

You have my sympathies - and I wish you well -- but I can offer no help.

453676fh

Thankyou for your reply , but I am at a loss to the point of your post ?