Beware cowboys' business rate pledges, surveyors warn

Licensees have received a stark warning from the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) to steer clear of "cowboy" consultants who claim they can definitely reduce business rates.

From 1 April, pubs will be able to appeal against their new business rates, which will be in operation until April 2010.

Appeals can be made if the assessor has changed the rateable value or if a material change has occurred to the property, or its locality, which could affect its value. This could include a change to the premises, a change in the area, such as a disturbance due to roadworks, new developments that affect the property's value or a difference in the annual turnover that has been taken and assessed.

"The leisure industry, in particular pubs and bars, should beware of opportunist, unqualified advisers or consultants who make claims that they can definitely reduce business rates," a spokesman said. "It is important the professionals you hire are who they say they are. RICS members are governed by a strict code of practice and are experts in both the valuation and rating system."

For a free half-hour consultation or to check the validity ofan RICS member contact theRICS on 0870 333 1600 or at contactrics@rics.org.