South Gloucestershire Council

After the initial three or six month rate free period expires, empty property will be liable for 100% of the basic occupied business rate unless:

• It is held by a charity and appears likely to be next used for charitable purposes.
• The rateable value is under the threshold value of £2,900. (Note, before 1 April 2017, the threshold value was £2,600).. Empty properties with a rateable value of less than £2,900 will be exempt.
• It is held by a community amateur sports club and appears likely to be next used for the purpose of that club.
• The owner is prohibited by law from occupying the property.
• The owner is prohibited by action taken by the Crown, or any other local or public authority from occupying the premises.
• The property is included in the schedule of monuments compiled under s.1 to the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979.
• The owner is entitled to possession only in his capacity as the personal representative of a deceased person.
• If the following insolvency or debit administration situation exists:

• A bankruptcy order within parts 8 to 11 of the Insolvency Act 1986.
• The owner is a trustee under a deed of arrangement to which the Deeds of Arrangement Act 1914 applies.
• The owner is a company subject to a winding up order made under the Insolvency Act 1986.
• The owner is entitled to possession of the property in his capacity as liquidator under s112 and / or s145 of the Insolvency Act 1986.