Rating consultancy code of practice, 5th edition

The code of practice has been jointly adopted by RICS, the Institute of Revenues, Rating and Valuation (IRRV) and the Rating Surveyors’ Association (RSA).

With the aim of improving consumer protection and maintaining professional standards, the code sets out the standards of practice that rating consultants must adopt in all cases where they are either seeking instructions, or are approached by a new or existing client, to provide advice in relation to non-domestic rating matters.

The 5th edition includes some small revisions to the appendices and other minor areas from the previous edition published in 2017. These improve accountability around the use of declarations contained in the appendices, to support consumer protection.

The code has mandatory application in relation to rating consultancy work undertaken by members of RICS, IRRV or RSA.

The code of practice covers:

• The code of practice applicable in England and Wales
  
• The code of practice applicable in Scotland
  
• The code of practice applicable in Northern Ireland