Transitional Arrangements

Rateable values are due to be reassessed every 3 years.

The purpose of the revaluation is not to raise extra revenue overall but to ensure rateable values are based upon up-to-date rental values. Therefore, rateable values - and rates bills - for some properties may rise or fall.

Following a revaluation, special transitional arrangements are put in place to phase in significant increases in rates bills. These set limits on the percentage by which your rates can change each year as a result of revaluation.

Transitional arrangements will apply if your year's bill (based on the rateable value times the multiplier) is higher than the previous year's bill (as at 31 March) by more than the amounts shown below. If so, your bill will only be increased by the relevant percentage. The difference between the year's bill and what you actually pay is shown on your bill as Transitional Relief.

The transitional arrangement for 2026-2029 can be seen using the below tables:-

Small Property – RV 20,000 or less,   Medium Property – RV over 20,000 but below/equal to 100,000, Large property – RV over 100,000    

Set limits on Increases

Year             Small                         Medium                            Large             

2026/27       5.0%                           15.0%                               30.0%

2027/28       10.0%                         25.0%                                25.0%

2028/29       25.0%                         40.0%                                25.0%

The transitional arrangements do not cover changes in the rateable value because of changes to the property (eg an extension). The limits on increases do not include adjustments caused by inflation.

Any transitional relief you are entitled to is calculated by the Council and included in your rates bill.

From 01/04/2026, there are special rules for properties in receipt of either small business rates relief, retail hospitality and leisure relief or both on 31/03/2026. Please click here for details about the Supporting Small Business Relief scheme. 

The transitional arrangement for 2023/24-2025/26 can be seen using the below tables:-

Small Property – RV 20,000 or less,   Medium Property – RV over 20,000 but below/equal to 100,000, Large property – RV over 100,000   

Set limits on Increases                           

Year             Small        Medium       Large             

2023/24        5.0%        15%          30%

2024/25       10%          25%          40%

2025/26       25%         40%           55%

The transitional arrangements do not cover changes in the rateable value because of changes to the property (eg an extension). The limits on increases and decreases do not include adjustments caused by inflation.

Any transitional relief you are entitled to is calculated by the Council and included in your rates bill.