Business Rates and Storage Containers

[RhysT]

Hi. After some advice. We currently run a hay, haylage, straw and shavings selling business. We don’t currently pay business rates. I don’t know if we should.
Looking at buying a few storage containers as another possible income stream.
I’m assuming we would need to pay rates on the storage containers? And possibly should we be currently be paying rates?

 

[Still Farming]

Maybe planning,change of use and views of The Council and VOA depts. and posdible NDR applicable.

 

[Steevo]

I'd set it up as a separate business.

Two benefits:
VAT - under threshold turnoverwise so no need to charge VAT on container storage
Business rates - you should be able to claim small business rate relief if your rateable value is less than £12k.

 

[RhysT]

Thanks guys. Keep up with the advice.

 

[Still Farming]

I'd set it up as a separate business.

Two benefits:
VAT - under threshold turnoverwise so no need to charge VAT on container storage
Business rates - you should be able to claim small business rate relief if your rateable value is less than £12k.

Could be subject to the voa ctiteria.
Voa set rates and council collect so guess they got to assess first.