Proposals to streamline the business rates appeals system have been unveiled by local government minister Marcus Jones.
The new system aims to prevent the flood of speculative appeals submitted by agents, who often work on a ‘no win-no fee’ basis.
More than 850,000 appeals have been placed against rating valuations for the 2010 rating list, and around 70% of these result in no change to the rateable value.
Mr Jones said: ‘The appeals process has been hampered by some unscrupulous agents making speculative appeals.’
The reforms would lead to a three-stage process where businesses check relevant facts are up to date and accurate before quickly correcting agreed errors.
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