Farmers and crofters have been urged to take caution when completing new questionnaires relating to the re-introduction of sporting rates.
Bell Ingram’s rural land management partner, Malcolm Taylor, said failure to complete the forms properly could come back to haunt landowners, especially if they are trying to sell a farm in the future.
“Owner occupiers should take time to consider what they are being asked,” said Mr Taylor.
“The questions might seem innocuous on the face of it, but giving too much or inaccurate information might lead to future unforeseen issues. I am not suggesting giving false information but give relevant information.”
He said there was no clear indication as to how individual properties would be valued, and farmers should be aware of “unintended consequences”.
“Assessments will be made by April 2017, and to avoid unnecessary appeals, everyone should try and give as accurate information as possible,” said Mr Taylor.
“Get it right because it could come back to haunt you in the future if you are trying to sell your farm.”
Bidwells senior rural surveyor, Tim Roads, backed the call for getting the form filled in correctly.
He said: “The provision of accurate information is key if rates are going to be introduced in a balanced way.”
CKD Galbraith partner Calum Innes said assessors had been thrown in at the deep end and they would be forced to work quickly in order to get valuations out before the official re-introduction of rates on April 1, 2017.
He said errors would be inevitable, but farmers and landowners would be able to appeal the value given.
Bidwells senior rural surveyor, Tim Roads,
Scottish Land and Estates senior policy officer, Katy Dickson, said: “Many farmers and land-based businesses had little idea that they may be liable for the re-introduction of the rates and are concerned about being able to provide quickly the information the assessors are looking for.
“Despite the confusion, there is a statutory obligation to fill in the forms and we have encouraged members to provide as much accurate information as possible and to contact their assessor if they have queries. One of the major concerns remains the lack of clarity on valuation methodology.”
A Scottish Government spokeswoman last night said: “We value the important contribution which shooting businesses make to the rural economy.
“The removal of exemptions merely restores a previous longstanding arrangement, while also ensuring that taxation is balanced and businesses contribute fairly to the economy.”
