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Business Rates: 2026 Revaluation

What you need to know to prepare for 1 April 2026.

From 1 April 2026, a significant business rates revaluation will come into effect across the UK. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, this will be grounded on property values established as of 1 April 2024 – referred to as the Antecedent Valuation Date (AVD). This crucial adjustment is designed to align business rates with the current market dynamics, ensuring a fair distribution of liabilities across all ratepayers. In Scotland, the AVD or Tone Date is set one year later at 1 April 2025.

There will be different opportunities to challenge and appeal these new values based on the varying legislation across the four countries.

In England and Wales, the Check Challenge Appeal system remains in place for the moment, whereas in Scotland and Northern Ireland, there are more restrictive opportunities.

For Scotland, it’s crucial to note the submission of a detailed evidence-based proposal must be submitted between 1 April 2026 and 31 July 2026.

Find out more about Scotland’s revaluation here.

Key Changes in England and Wales

New Rateable Values (RVs) from April 2026

All commercial properties in England and Wales will receive new rateable values based on rental evidence from 1 April 2024. This updated valuation will remain in effect for the following three years (2026–2029). Properties that have seen rental growth or decline in recent years may experience significant swings in liability.

Introduction of Tiered Multipliers for England

The government intends to introduce differentiated multipliers for the first time:

Lower multipliers for Retail, Hospitality and Leisure (RHL) properties with a Rateable Value below £500,000.

Higher multipliers for properties with RVs of £500,000 and above, regardless of sector.

This new structure is intended to support smaller businesses and rebalance the tax burden, though it will result in larger properties facing a disproportionate increase in liability. At present the Welsh and Scottish Governments have not indicated that they will be introducing similar tiered multipliers.

Transitional Relief Scheme

A new transitional relief scheme is expected to accompany the 2026 Revaluation. This will aim to phase in the impact of significant increases in rateable value.

Ongoing Improvement Relief

Improvement Relief, which was introduced in England from April 2024, will still be in effect. This provides 12 months of 100% rates relief on any increase in RV resulting from qualifying property improvements. It’s vital to plan capital works carefully to ensure relief eligibility as the revaluation approaches.

Increased Pressure on Larger Ratepayers

As the Government shifts more of the fiscal burden onto high-value properties, companies with large regional HQs, distribution hubs, manufacturing plants, or landmark assets should expect closer scrutiny and potentially significant liability increases. Strategic preparation and early engagement will be essential.

New Responsibilities for Ratepayers

Digital reform continues to evolve. The Government has indicated that by 2029, businesses will face new reporting obligations, and in particular, more regular updates on property use and tenancy details known as the Duty to Inform. This is expected to be introduced gradually from 2026, initially on a voluntary basis and is part of the move toward a more modern and data-driven system under the Business Rates Digitalisation Programme.

Key Dates

How Newmark can help?

Newmark has a strong foundation in business rates expertise. Our track record includes delivering over £1.3 billion in savings for our clients since 2017. Additionally, we expertly manage rate payments, processing over £1 billion in liability annually.

Our success is underpinned by our ability to easily navigate complex legislative procedures and strict timelines. We are committed to staying ahead of the ever-changing business rates review and appeal process to ensure our clients receive the maximum benefit possible.

We know each sector inside out – from rental values and specific property cases to market movements and industry trends.

We have the rental, trading and cost evidence to present a robust case for our clients.

We regularly lead specialist scheme negotiations.

We have long standing relationships with the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) and Scottish Assessors Association (SAA).

Is your 2025/26 business rates bill accurate?

With the 2025/26 Uniform Business Rates (UBRs) now in effect in England, Scotland and Wales for the fiscal year 2025/26, it’s crucial to reassess your rates for accuracy. For a quick check of the new UBRs and reliefs, use our Business Rates Data Card. To ensure your 2025/26 rate strategy aligns with evolving market dynamics, we strongly encourage you to consult with our expert team.

Business Rates Data Card

Business rates across the UK can be complex to understand and navigate. Whether you’re a business owner, a landlord, or just seeking information, our resources provide expert guidance on business rates calculation, reliefs, exemptions, and other crucial aspects of the system. So, take the time to explore our resources and learn all you need to know about business rates.

Business Rates Resources