Changes to business rates multipliers from 1st April 2026
From 1st April 2026, there will be 5 business rates multipliers. These will reflect both business types and property value.
| Type of multiplier | Who it's for | Multiplier value |
| Small business RHL multiplier | Retail, hospitality and leisure (RHL) | 38.2p |
| Small business non-RHL multiplier | Non-RHL businesses with rateable value below £51,000 | 43.2p |
| Standard RHL multiplier | RHL businesses with rateable value between £51,000 and £499,999 | 43.0p |
| Standard non-RHL multiplier | Non-RHL businesses with rateable value between £51,000 and £499,999 | 48.0p |
| Large property multiplier | For all properties with rateable value of £500,000 and above | 50.8p |
Why these changes matter
The new system is designed to support local businesses. The new RHL multipliers will replace the annual RHL relief, which will give eligible businesses more long-term certainty.
It will also make sure larger organisations make fair contributions. A higher multiplier for large properties will mean that major distribution centres and online retailers contribute proportionately.
Transitional relief scheme
A transitional relief scheme will also be in place from 1 April 2026, which will limit the increase in bills.
Find out more about these changes, including how much your bill could increase by, on GOV.UK.
How we are preparing
We are reviewing our property database to decide which multiplier applies to each business.
We may contact you for more information about your business.
How you can prepare
Get ready for the new system by:
- checking your current rateable value and estimate for next year’s charge by visiting the Valuation Office Agency
- reviewing your eligibility for RHL classification and applying for relief or reductions.
Revaluation of rateable values for 2026
Every 3 years, the Valuation Office Agency updates the rateable values of commercial properties in England and Wales. This process is called a revaluation.
The next revaluation will come into effect on 1 April 2026.
To find out more about revaluation and check your rates, visit Revaluation 2026 – everything you need to know on GOV.UK.