Business Rates re valuation / appeal

[samkma]

Just want some insight into the scenario below.
I rent a property that has a shop and 2 floors (old flat) of space above the shop. I only use the shop floor the rest are not used as there is no electricity/water and is in very bad state of repair.
Annual rent is £10k
The non domestic rates value went up last year from £11K to £12750 so I don't get the relief rebate.
Is there any point is making an appeal via a surveyor stating that the premises above is not used and also showing that my rent is lower than the rateable value?

How long is the process? Do I have to go via a surveyor/ firm?

Appreciate input from anyone who has gone this route before or has similar experience.

Thank you

 

[Andrew Bacon]

If your rateable value is less than £12,000 and you are in England and it is your only property you will be aware that you can get 100% small business rate relief. Given that your RV is £12,750, your rates should be nominal and if the upper parts are in disrepair that Valuation Office may remove them or reduce their value. That is done under HMRC's Check and Challenge service via Check. If that doesn't work tell them about the £10,000 rent under Challenge as your 2017 rateable value is supposed to equal the rental value of your property at 1st April 2015