What the 2026 Revaluation Means for UK Commercial Property Owners
The recently published draft data from the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) for the 2026 rating revaluation shows significant changes to the rateable value of non‑domestic properties across England and Wales.
Overall increase in rateable value
The new 2026 draft list includes around 2.13 million non‑domestic properties.
Total rateable value on local lists has risen from £70.8 billion in 2023 to £84.4 billion — an overall increase of 19.2%.
By region, England saw a rise of 19.4%, while Wales saw a 15.2% increase.
Sector‑by‑sector picture
All sectors across England and Wales recorded increases.
The “other” sector (which includes hospitality, leisure, accommodation, wider services, transport, utilities etc.) saw the biggest jump — 28.2%.
The retail sector recorded the smallest increase at 9.3%.
The industry sector increased by 21.1%, and the office sector by 14.3%.
Regional variation
The biggest regional increase was in London: +22.3% — higher than any other region.
The lowest regional increase in England was the East Midlands at +16.0%, while Wales overall increased by 15.2%.
What this means for different property types
Lower‑value properties remain numerous — a large share of hereditaments still fall in low rateable value bands — but much of the total rateable value now comes from fewer, higher‑value properties.
Sectors outside traditional retail/offices — such as hospitality, leisure, utilities, transport, and accommodation — are facing the most substantial jumps, which may significantly impact businesses operating in those spaces.
What businesses/property‑owners should do now
Check the draft 2026 list to review your property’s new rateable value. The draft is designed to give you a chance to verify that your property data is correct before final business rates bills are issued.
Given the increases — particularly in sectors such as hospitality, logistics/industry and other non‑office/retail uses — this is a critical time to consider whether a rates appeal is appropriate.
For many businesses, especially those in high‑value or high‑growth sectors, the increase could be significant. Combined with the revised multipliers that the government will apply, this may materially affect annual rates bills.
How CPA can help
At Commercial Property Advisors (CPA), we specialise in business rates advice and mitigation when changes like these come into play.
We provide a free, no-obligation professional review of your draft assessment. If there’s an opportunity to reduce your rateable value, we can handle everything on your behalf—from on-site surveys to formal appeals.
Our service includes:
Assessment from RICS-regulated surveyors
No saving, no fee – you only pay if we save you money
Full management of the appeals process
Transparent, supportive, and expert service
No upfront costs or hidden fees
If you've been affected by the 2026 revaluation, now is a key moment to review your rateable value with expert support. Contact us today on 0800 059 0996 or email enquiries@commercialpropertyadvisors.co.uk.
