The Valuation Office Agency (VOA) has issued a warning to property owners regarding misleading information circulating about the deadline for appeals to the 2023 rating lists. Contrary to claims that the deadline is June 30, the VOA clarifies that challenges to property valuations on the 2023 list can be made at any time until March 2026.
Property owners are urged to exercise caution if approached by agents making false assertions or pressuring for immediate decisions. The VOA advises scepticism towards agents who:
- Pressure for quick decisions or contract signatures
- Make dubious claims about ‘unclaimed credits’
- Falsely state they represent the VOA
- Demand large upfront payments
It is important to note that employing an agent for managing business rates is not mandatory. For those considering professional assistance, the VOA provides a checklist to help select a reputable agent and avoid being chosen by one with questionable motives.
In response to these deceptive practices, the VOA has released new guidance on avoiding scammers and has established VOA agent standards. These standards outline expected behaviours, professional practices, and service quality for agents.
While most agents operate reputably, there are exceptions. The VOA actively collects evidence of misconduct and encourages anyone with concerns or evidence of misrepresentation by agents to contact them at [email protected].
