000			01349cam a2200229 4500
001			WB3909-21
008			030305n2003 000 0 eng u
035			_a(Sirsi) u121526
245			_aVOA faces flood of rates appeals around the UK
260			_c2003
490			_aEstates Gazette _v(0307) 15 February 2003, 32(1)
520			_aUp to 200 000 properties could find their rateable value reduced if the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) considers recent flooding constitutes a material change in circumstances. This would lead to a flood of business rates and council tax appeals from homes and businesses in areas at high risk of flooding. According to current legislation the tenant is responsible for all outgoings on a property including insurance: the high rates of insurance at present mean that achievable rents and property values could be reduced and consequently affect the council tax banding of the property. The VOA is currently recruiting for rating surveyors and support staff in time for the council tax revaluation in 2007 and the business rate revaluation in 2005.
590			_aWB
650			_aFLOOD RISK AREAS
650			_aBUSINESS RATES
650			_aCOUNCIL TAX APPEALS
650			_aRATEABLE VALUE
650			_aRATING VALUATION
650			_aINSURANCE COSTS
690			_aRATING AND LOCAL TAXATION
942			_n0
999			_c72229 _d72229