Charities and certain non-profit making organisations are entitled to a rate reduction on non-domestic properties occupied for charitable purposes. There are two types of relief: mandatory and discretionary.
Mandatory Relief
If your property is used wholly or mainly for charitable purposes, by a registered charity, then that charity is entitled to an 80 per cent reduction on the bill. You will need to complete an application form, available from the Council.
Charities do not necessarily have to be registered to qualify as some charities are exempt from registration, such as the Scout and Girl Guide Associations and community amateur sports clubs.
When completing the application form please ensure you include your charity’s registration number and enclose a copy of your articles of association, statement of aims and objectives or trust documents.
Discretionary Relief
Rates relief can also be given to certain other non-profit making organisations that have charitable objectives but are not registered charities.
This relief is funded by and awarded at the discretion of the local authority.
To qualify your organisation must be charitable or philanthropic, religious or concerned with education, social welfare, science, literature or fine arts, or the occupier of a club concerned with recreation.
Southampton City Council
