Check, Challenge, Appeal

The CCA process

The CCA system is divided into three stages, each with its own set of complicated requirements.

Before a ratepayer or building owner can start the process, they must first register on the bespoke business rates Gov UK Gateway and formally ‘claim’ their property by uploading evidence in the form of a rate bill, lease or land registry documentation.

Once registered and claimed, the first phase, known as  ‘Check,’ allows occupiers or owners to confirm the accuracy of the property information held by the Valuation Office Agency (VOA). For most properties, the system includes a basic breakdown of the valuation used to arrive at the Rateable Value, as well as an opportunity to compare with similar properties in the area.

Once a ‘Check’ has been submitted the VOA will issue a decision which will either reflect any factual changes, if agreed, or state that there has been no change to the Rateable Value as a result.

If there is a discrepancy, the occupier or owner can move on to the ‘Challenge’ phase which requires the submission of a proposed revised Rateable Value and reliable evidence in support. The appellant must make a strong case for why the Rateable Value is incorrect. After considering the challenge, the VOA can either agree, propose an alternative figure or dismiss the challenge entirely.

Once a ‘Challenge’ decision has been issued, the appellant can progress to the ‘Appeal’ stage. A ratepayer or building owner unhappy with the previous conclusion can present the issue to a Valuation Tribunal (an impartial panel) for a final decision.

Each stage necessitates a level of experience and understanding that may be intimidating to some, jeopardising the goal of streamlining the appeal process.