Business Property Revaluations – What You Need to Know for 2026

The Valuation Office Agency (VOA) will soon be updating the rateable values of commercial properties across England and Wales, with the next revaluation set to take effect from 1 April 2026. These new figures will be based on open-market rental values as at 1 April 2024.

Why this matters

Business rates are worked out using your property’s rateable value. While this figure isn’t your final bill, it forms the foundation for calculating what you’ll pay. Local councils then apply a multiplier and consider any reliefs before issuing your actual charge.

With new valuations being published a few months ahead of April 2026, it’s important for businesses to be prepared.

Setting up a Business Rates Valuation Account

The VOA is encouraging businesses to create a valuation account. Doing so will allow you to:

• Access your property’s details directly.

• Confirm the VOA has the right information on file.

• Understand how your valuation has been calculated.

• Challenge or flag any inaccuracies if you believe your property has been assessed incorrectly.
  

Why early access helps

Knowing your property’s updated rateable value in advance gives you more time to plan. Rather than being caught out when your new bill arrives, you’ll have the opportunity to review the figures and assess what impact any changes may have on your business finances.

Next steps

With business rates often forming a significant overhead, keeping informed about upcoming revaluations is key. By setting up a business rates valuation account now, you’ll have the information you need to make proactive decisions ahead of April 2026.

If you’d like advice on how potential changes to your property valuation could affect your business, the team at SJC, Chartered Accountants is here to help.