Council warning over business rate appeals (From Thurrock Gazette)

Council warning over business rate appeals

7:20am Thursday 17th January 2013 in News

THURROCK Council’s Trading Standards department is warning businesses to be wary of companies which offer to help reduce business rates by appealing against valuations.

Known as “reduction” companies, they offer to appeal business valuations set against Government rates.

The council’s portfolio holder for public protection, Cllr Angie Gaywood, said: “Our advice for businesses is to be very cautious of claims from companies that say they can secure big reductions in business rates.

“Ask for written confirmation of such claims and if the company refuses, stay well clear.

“Always remember, if you appeal, your rates could go up as well as down.

“This is often not made clear by the firms who contact you.”