Rating advisers

Ratepayers do not have to be represented in discussions about their rateable value or their rates bill.

Appeals against rateable values can be made free of charge. However, ratepayers who do wish to be represented should be aware that members of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS-website www.rics.org (opens in a new window)) and the Institute of Revenues Rating and Valuation (IRRV-website www.irrv.org.uk (opens in a new window)) are qualified and are regulated by rules of professional conduct designed to protect the public from misconduct. Before you employ a rating adviser, you should check that they have the necessary knowledge and expertise, as well as appropriate indemnity insurance. Take great care and, if necessary, seek further advice before entering into any contract.

You can contact the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) direct by writing to:

Janet Alexander BA MRICS MCMI

Valuation Officer

Non-domestic Rates East

Valuation Office Agency

Rosebery Court

Central Avenue

St Andrews Business Park

Norwich

NR7 0HS

E-mail: ratingeast@voa.gsi.gov.uk

The main switchboard number is 03000 501 501.