Whether hairdresser, mechanic, florist or accountant, all businesses have to pay rates, the tax based on the rental value of the property. But many businesses may be paying too much. RICS has launched a Business Rates helpline which offers free advice to businesses across the UK.

There is also a new, easy to understand leaflet available by calling the same number: 0870 333 1600.

Every five years the government undertakes a revaluation of non-domestic properties for the purpose of calculating business rates. The process begins two years ahead of the date on which the revaluation is due to take effect.

It is now in progress for the 1 April 2005 revaluation. The timetable means that businesses will receive the results of their assessment this time next year and will get new rates bills in March 2005, payable in April.

The revaluation covers England, Wales and Scotland and includes some two million individual properties.