Proposals to exempt empty properties owned by companies in administration from liability for non domestic rates

 Thank you for the opportunity to respond to the above consultation paper. 

RICS Wales has the following comments to make:

RICS Wales is the principal body representing professionals employed in the land, property and construction sector and represents some 4000 members. As part of our Royal Charter we have a commitment to provide advice to the Government of the day and in doing so we have an obligation to bear in mind the public interest of our members. Rating legislation and valuation forms a large part of the work a number of our members employed in the private and public sectors and their comments are represented.

The proposal will exempt companies in administration from liability to pay non domestic rates in respect of empty property.  RICS Wales welcomes the proposal as sound and sensible. It will make the treatment of companies in administration consistent with companies in liquidation and individuals subject to bankruptcy proceedings, and will remove any potential for decision about whether to enter administration or to wind up the company.

RICS Wales will respond separately to the twin paper on examining small business rate relief but if you have any queries in respect of the above please do not hesitate to contact me.