Business rates relief and exemptions

You can apply for various business rate reliefs from us depending on the status of your property.

Occupied premises

You may be able to apply for:

• mandatory rate relief for registered charities and sports clubs
• discretionary relief for non-profit making bodies
• small business rate relief
• hardship relief
• part-occupied property relief
• newspaper relief
• retail discount
• Supporting Small Business (SSB) Relief Scheme

Empty premises

There’s no charge for the first three months when a business becomes empty, or six months for industrial property. After this, it will be charged at the full business rates. 
There are some exemptions, such as listed buildings and properties with a rateable value of less than £2,900. 

Subsidy Control

The new UK subsidy control regime commenced from 4 January 2023. The new regime enables us to deliver subsidies that are tailored for local needs. We must comply with the UK’s international subsidy control commitments.

A subsidy refers to a grant, a tax break, a loan, or other form of financial assistance paid from public resources. Search and check how much subsidy has been awarded to a business .

Business rates discretionary relief and grants to ratepayers is likely to amount to a subsidy. Any relief provided by Local Authorities under these schemes will need to comply with the UK’s domestic and international subsidy control obligations.

The subsidy control legislation provides the framework for a new, UK wide subsidy control regime.

Further information about subsidy control can be found on the GOV.UK website.