Listed buildings hold a special place in our heritage, often representing historical and architectural significance that needs to be preserved for future generations However, the maintenance of these buildings can be costly, especially when they are left empty One such cost that property owners need to be aware of is the empty rates for listed buildings.
Empty rates, also known as business rates, are taxes that property owners need to pay on empty buildings These rates are charged by local authorities to encourage property owners to bring their buildings back into use and prevent them from falling into disrepair However, the rules around empty rates for listed buildings can be complex and confusing Here’s what you need to know about navigating empty rates for listed buildings.
Listed buildings are subject to the same empty rates rules as any other commercial property If a listed building is empty, the property owner will be liable to pay empty rates after a certain period of time The exact timeframe before empty rates are applicable can vary depending on the specific regulations in the local authority area where the building is located In some areas, the empty rates period can be as short as three months, while in others it can be as long as two years.
One key consideration for property owners of listed buildings is the Historic England initiative known as the Heritage Economic Regeneration Scheme (HERS) empty rates listed buildings. HERS allows property owners to claim relief on empty rates for up to five years if they can demonstrate that they are actively trying to find a new use for the building This can include carrying out necessary repairs and maintenance, marketing the property for sale or rent, or engaging with potential tenants or buyers.
To qualify for HERS relief, property owners of listed buildings need to submit a detailed application to Historic England outlining their plans for the building and how they intend to bring it back into use The application process can be lengthy and complex, requiring property owners to provide evidence of their efforts to find a new use for the building, as well as detailed cost estimates for any necessary repairs or renovations.
Property owners should also be aware that empty rates relief for listed buildings is not automatic and can be subject to approval by the local authority Property owners may need to provide regular updates to the local authority on their progress in bringing the building back into use in order to continue to qualify for relief Failure to do so could result in the property owner losing their relief and being liable for full empty rates.
Another consideration for property owners of listed buildings is the potential impact of changes in ownership or occupancy on their empty rates liability If a listed building changes ownership or occupancy while it is empty, the new owner or occupier may become liable for empty rates from the date of the change Property owners should be aware of the potential implications of such changes and plan accordingly to avoid any unexpected liabilities.
In conclusion, navigating empty rates for listed buildings can be complex and challenging, but with careful planning and a good understanding of the regulations, property owners can minimize their liabilities and preserve these important heritage assets for future generations By taking advantage of initiatives such as HERS and staying informed of changes in ownership or occupancy, property owners can ensure that their listed buildings remain a valued part of our architectural and historical heritage.