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Unoccupied Property Rating

Currently, empty properties receive an initial three-month exemption followed by a 50% charge, unless the property is exempt from paying empty rates. Exempt properties include industrial buildings (workshops, warehouses etc), Listed Buildings and properties with a Rateable Value of £2,200 or less. However, from 1 April 2008, this is due to change.

From this date, an empty property will still receive the standard three-month exemption but upon expiry, a 100% charge will apply. Industrial properties will initially receive a six-month exemption but this will be followed by a full charge. Empty properties owned by, and intended for use by, Charities and Community Amateur Sports Clubs will be completely exempt from the new rule.

Currently, it is not known what will happen with empty, Listed Buildings or properties with a Rateable Value of £2,200 or less. However, the information on this page will be updated as soon as we hear.

Due to the impending changes, you will now need to think ahead to April 2008 and how this will affect you. If you are an owner of an empty property, you will need to assess the financial impact this will have on you.

If you have any queries on this matter, please contact the Business Rates section on 01493 846240 or email nndr@great-yarmouth.gov.uk

1. Where occupation is prohibited by law.

2. Where a property is kept empty due to action taken by or on behalf of the Crown or any local or public authority with a view to prohibiting occupation.

3. Certain listed buildings or where the building is the subject of a building preservation notice or it is scheduled as an ancient monument.

4. Qualifying industrial properties, excluding any retail properties.

Qualifying industrial properties are those which have been constructed or adapted for use in the course of a trade or business and for use for one or more of the following purposes:

i. The manufacture, repair or adaptation of goods or materials, or where any goods or materials are subject to any process.
ii. The storage or handling of goods in the course of their distribution.
iii. The working or processing of minerals.
iv. The generation of electricity.

5. Where the rateable value is less than £2200.

6. Where the person entitled to possession of the property is acting in the capacity as a personal representative of a deceased person, or as a liquidator or as a trustee under a deed of arrangement or where the owner is the subject of bankruptcy proceedings.

If you require any further information about property exemptions, then please contact us.