Business rates: the basics

Rates are a property tax used to fund both local and regional services in Northern Ireland. They are collected by Land & Property Services (LPS) on behalf of the Northern Ireland Executive and the district councils. There are two different rates, a domestic rate for residential properties and a business rate for non-domestic properties.

Business rates are a rate for all non-domestic properties capable of producing an income or commanding a rent, such as offices, factories and shops, with individual bills based on the rateable value of your property as at 1 October 2021. If you use a building or part of a building for business, you will probably have to pay business rates.

You have a legal and civic responsibility to pay your rate bill.

This guide explains who pays business rates, how business rates are calculated and what you should do if you occupy, leave or vacate a property. This guide also outlines rates for retail units and rates for licensed premises.

Queries on your business rates

If you have a query regarding your business rates you should contact Land & Property Services.