Work out what a branch pays in business rates on the 2026/27 multipliers, with small business rate relief.
Illustrative figures on 2026/27 rates and simplified assumptions. This is general information, not advice. Ask us to work it out on your agency's figures, free.
Rateable value times the multiplier gives the bill before relief. Rateable values were reset on 1 April 2026, based on rents at 1 April 2024.
Estate and letting agents are professional services and are excluded by name from the retail, hospitality and leisure rates. The shop next door can pay 5p in the pound less on the same rateable value.
| Property | Rateable value under £51,000 | £51,000 to £499,999 |
|---|---|---|
| Retail, hospitality and leisure | 38.2p | 43p |
| Everything else, including estate agents | 43.2p | 48p |
| Any property at £500,000 or more | 50.8p | |
Relief applies to one property. Extra properties are allowed only where each is under £2,899 rateable value and the total stays under £20,000, or £28,000 in London. Take on a second property and you keep relief on the first for twelve months, or thirty-six where it was taken on from 27 November 2025. If you qualify and are being billed, apply to the council; relief can usually be backdated.
Challenge the rateable value through the Valuation Office Agency’s Check, Challenge and Appeal process. Wrong floor areas, space you no longer use, or a layout from before your last refit are common grounds.
Rates agents may offer to do it for a share of the saving. Do not pay one up front.
A free review gets you the accurate figure for your agency.