Licensees warned about rogue rate appeal agents
Licensees are being warned to be careful when appointing agents to handle their rateable value appeals.
The Valuation Office Agency (VOA), part of the Inland Revenue, has issued the warning following complaints that agents offering unfair contract terms and demanding money upfront were attempting to pressure licensees into signing up.
The rateable value of a property is based on the value of the business, which includes a combination of rental values and turnover. Rents were collated by the valuation officer in April 2003 before the setting of new rateable values for the five-year period from 2005 to 2010.
VOA head of customer service, Pat Duckworth, said: "If you feel your rateable value is incorrect you can make an appeal directly to the VOA and it costs nothing.
"Alternatively, if a rating service is not provided under the terms of any lease or agreement, you may wish to appoint an agent to act on your behalf in making an appeal and the vast majority provide good advice for their clients.
"However, ratepayers should be on their guard against the minority who promise big savings in rates bills and may fail to deliver."
The VOA advises:
- Beware of the 'hard sell' of telesales or doorstep salespeople and ask searching questions before you sign anything
- Understand the terms of any contract you are offered and be aware that there may be terms which commit you to a period of service
- Find out if the agent is able and willing to put you in touch with satisfied clients
- Be suspicious of any agent who claims to be able to get a big reduction in your rateable value without inspecting your property or asking to see your accounts
- Check the credentials of any agent who claims to be a member of a professional rating body
