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Changes to Business Rates multipliers from April 2026
From April 2026, the UK Government will introduce new business rates multipliers as part of wider reforms to create a fairer, more modern system that supports investment and protects the high street.
Current system
At present, there are two multipliers based on property rateable value (RV):
- Small Business Multiplier: For properties with RV below £51,000
- Standard Multiplier: For properties with RV of £51,000 and above
What’s changing
From April 2026, the system will expand to five multipliers, reflecting both business type and property value:
New multipliers
- Small Business RHL Multiplier: Retail, hospitality and leisure (RHL) businesses with RV below £51,000
- Small Business Non-RHL Multiplier: Non-RHL businesses with RV below £51,000
- Standard RHL Multiplier: RHL businesses with RV between £51,000 and £499,999
- Standard Non-RHL Multiplier: Non-RHL businesses with RV between £51,000 and £499,999
- Large Property Multiplier: All properties with RV of £500,000 and above
Why these changes matter
- Support for the High Street: RHL multipliers will replace annual RHL relief and remove any cap on the level of support, giving eligible businesses long-term certainty.
- Fairer Contributions: A higher multiplier for large properties ensures major distribution centres and online retailers contribute proportionately.
Legislative safeguards
The Non-Domestic Rating (Multipliers and Private Schools) Bill will limit differences between multipliers:
- Large property multiplier cannot exceed the standard multiplier by more than 10p.
- RHL multipliers cannot be more than 20p lower than the small business multiplier.
What happens next
- Autumn Budget 2025: Exact rates for each multiplier will be confirmed.
- Eligibility Rules: Government will define RHL property eligibility via secondary legislation (expected to broadly align with current RHL relief rules).
- Changes will coincide with the 2026 revaluation of non-domestic properties, the draft list is expected to be available on 26 November 2025
How we’re preparing
We’re reviewing our property database to determine which multiplier applies to each business. Some ratepayers may be contacted for additional information.
How you can prepare
- Check your current rateable value via the Valuation Office Agency
- Review your eligibility for RHL classification.
- Subscribe to the business newsletter and GOV.UK updates to stay informed.
