Many rating agents work on a "no win, no fee" basis: you pay a percentage of the money saved, and nothing if there's no saving. That sounds simple, but fees vary a lot, and the percentage alone doesn't tell you the cost.
The period matters as much as the percentage
A fee of "10% of savings over three years" costs exactly the same as "30% of the first year's saving". Always ask which period the percentage applies to.
Questions to ask any agent
- What percentage, and of savings over what period?
- Is there any upfront, "audit", "review" or admin fee, and is any of it payable if the challenge fails?
- Is there a cap on the fee?
- Is the person signing off my case a member of RICS, the IRRV or the Rating Surveyors' Association?
- What happens, and what do I pay, if I want to stop?
- How will you keep me informed about deadlines?
How to spot a rates scam
Councils regularly warn about cold callers offering to reduce business rates. Be wary of anyone who:
- contacts you out of the blue claiming your property has been "flagged" for a refund,
- asks for an upfront fee to start,
- says there is an urgent deadline you must meet today, or
- implies they work for, or are approved by, the VOA or your council.
Questions
Do I need an agent to challenge my rateable value?
No. You can Check and Challenge for free through your business rates valuation account on GOV.UK. Agents charge for their expertise, evidence and time.
How do you charge?
See our fees page for our rate, the period it covers and our cap. There are no upfront fees, and nothing to pay if there's no saving.