Paying for empty buildings
New rules mean that owners of empty business premises face changes to their business rates if their buildings remain unoccupied for more than six months.
Currently industrial and warehouse properties are exempt from rates, but from April 2008 they will be liable to pay the full charge after a six month exemption period.
South Kesteven District Council is already writing to the owners of around 400 properties which may be affected by the changes.
Jeanette Strutt, revenues manager at SKDC, said: "We're encouraging owners and landlords to think ahead - they may have tenants due to leave next spring and need to plan how they will attract new tenants within the exemption period.
"Some property owners may be concerned about the potential extra cost, but if the new law has the desired effect this is good news for everyone - empty properties are often a magnet for vandals which is bad news for owners and neighbouring tenants, and has a knock on effect for the police and fire services.
"It's so much better if they are occupied rather than left vacant for long periods."
As this is a new piece of national legislation, all the money collected by SKDC will go straight into the National Rating Pool.
Unoccupied business property owned by charities and amateur sports clubs will be fully exempt. A decision regarding listed buildings has not yet been made.
Anyone with questions should contact the business rates section at SKDC on 01476 406027 or e mail ndr@southkesteven.gov.uk.
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Sunday 05 February 2012
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