Local Authorities And Landlords Beware

As from 1 April 2008, most properties remaining empty for more than three months (six in the case of industrial property) will no longer receive relief from rates after that period. There are some exceptions such as charities and sports clubs but, essentially, landlords will have to start paying for their empty properties.

Most local authorities have already started identifying the owners of empty properties that will become liable for rates. Landlords, therefore, can expect bills to land on their doormats fairly soon after 1 April. It is anticipated that this will have the effect (as intended by the Government) of making more properties available at attractive rents. Any attempt to avoid paying rates by altering or damaging properties will not work because the new legislation permits the introduction of regulations to ensure that properties are valued as if still intact. A landlord could therefore be