I used to work in a local authority Rates office for 10 years. for what its worth here are some pointers that may help people when signing commercial leases in future.
1) Commercial rates are heavily bound by legislation some of it going back since Ireland was under british rule.
2) Rates remain with the property NOT with the person. The owner is usually liable for commercial rates BUT if the property is leased out then the present occupier is automatically liable even for arrears run up by previous tenants.
The owner is liable when the property becomes vacant and remains so.
3) The saying "Buyer Beware really does apply when taking on a lease or buying a commercial property/business. It is imperative that the buyer /leasee check with the local authority beforehand regarding any outstanding charges for Commercial Rates or Watercharges on the premises.
A quick call to the local authority rates office will soon clarify the situation.
Don't rely on your solicitor to do it. In my experience many solicitors never think of checking.
4) Local authorities do have extensive powers regarding the collection of commercial rates. I would advise the OP to keep trying to reach a settlement with the local authority. Failing that they should engage a local solicitor/auctioneer to negotiate with the local authority on their behalf. This usually is very helpful.
1) Commercial rates are heavily bound by legislation some of it going back since Ireland was under british rule.
2) Rates remain with the property NOT with the person. The owner is usually liable for commercial rates BUT if the property is leased out then the present occupier is automatically liable even for arrears run up by previous tenants.
The owner is liable when the property becomes vacant and remains so.
3) The saying "Buyer Beware really does apply when taking on a lease or buying a commercial property/business. It is imperative that the buyer /leasee check with the local authority beforehand regarding any outstanding charges for Commercial Rates or Watercharges on the premises.
A quick call to the local authority rates office will soon clarify the situation.
Don't rely on your solicitor to do it. In my experience many solicitors never think of checking.
4) Local authorities do have extensive powers regarding the collection of commercial rates. I would advise the OP to keep trying to reach a settlement with the local authority. Failing that they should engage a local solicitor/auctioneer to negotiate with the local authority on their behalf. This usually is very helpful.