Mandatory (charitable) business rates relief

Charities are entitled to a reduction of 80% if the property is wholly or mainly used for charitable purposes.

Community amateur sports clubs are among the bodies able to register their status with HM Revenue & Customs. They will then also be entitled to claim mandatory business rates relief. 

You can find more information on charities and their status on the HM Revenue & Customs website.

To claim this reduction you will need to complete a mandatory business rates relief application form. You can download the form or obtain a copy from our customer service points or telephone 020 7525 5505.

It is important that you provide all of the supporting information and evidence with your application. The guidance notes below will provide you with assistance.

Guidance notes

If you wish to apply for mandatory reduction you should

• Check that your organisation fulfils the criteria
• Fully complete the application form
• Ensure that the form is signed

Return the form and the supporting evidence to:

Southwark Council
Business Rates Team
1st Floor, Print Hub 4
PO BOX 68763
London
SE1P 4DJ

Evidence

If you are applying as a charity you should provide the following documents to support your application

• A copy of your charity registration or an official letter confirming the organisation is exempt from registration
• A letter from the HM Revenue & Customs, if you are recognised as a charity for income tax purposes

If you have any queries as to what you should provide please contact Southwark Council business rates.

What to do while waiting for a decision

If you have applied for a reduction you should continue to pay in line with your current bill.

If the reduction is awarded, you will be issued with a further bill and new payment instructions. This will take account of any payments you have already made.

When we have made a decision

When we have received your completed application form we will issue you with a letter of acknowledgement and verify the information provided. We may also arrange for one of our inspectors to visit the property.

We will write and inform you whether your application has been successful and, if so, how much will be awarded.