The property rates payer, if the commercial property becomes empty, is entitled to 3 months business rates exemption. This allows the landlord time to find a tenant. You can get 6 months empty property relief if the property is considered industrial by its use. The 3 months relief is for smaller non industrial type properties, think retail, pubs and offices. Has the council given you 3 or 6 months unoccupied property relief, you need to check with the council to find out, if you are in doubt. If you are unable to establish if the council has applied the relief, give us a call to discuss how we can help you find out. Please note that you cannot claim small business rates relief on an empty property. The property must be occupied but the business does not have to be trading as the property can be used for storage purposes, tools etc.