Interim rates notices are issued to inform ratepayers of a change in the amount of rates payable.
This adjustment may reflect an increase or decrease due to changes in your property's circumstances.
Why you may receive an interim notice
Interim notices can be issued for various reasons, including:
- New building
- Additions to improvements
- Demolition of improvement
Your interim notice reflects the current balance payable, including any amounts previously levied during the current financial year. It supersedes all prior notices and includes any outstanding charges from earlier notices.
New valuations are issues when a property is created through subdivision, amalgamation, or the establishment of a new strata plan. One construction is completed on previously vacant land, the property is classified as "improved," which may result in a higher valuation and adjusted rates.
Enhancements to existing buildings, such as extensions or new structures, typically lead to an increase in the property’s valuation. For example, installing a swimming pool can add recreational appeal, while building a garage or carport provides secure parking and additional storage. Adding extra rooms or constructing a second storey significantly expands the living space and increases market value.
Removing buildings or structures may reduce the Gross Rental Value of your property. This is often part of a broader redevelopment process, and further valuation changes may occur as work progresses. For instance, demolishing a residential or commercial building, removing a swimming pool, or taking down a garage or carport can all impact the valuation.
t’s important to note that following demolition, the Office of the Valuer-General reassesses the property using a different valuation method, which may not always result in lower rates.
How Gross Rental Value (GRV) is determined
The GRV is independently assessed by the Office of the Valuer-General at Landgate for all rateable properties in Western Australia. It represents the total annual rent a property could reasonably earn if rented, including associated costs. GRV is influenced by factors such as location, property age and type, and any improvements made.
The City calculates annual rates by applying a rate in the dollar to the GRV:
GRV × Rate in the dollar = Annual rates
Disputing your GRV
If you believe your GRV is incorrect, you can lodge an enquiry with Landgate within 60 days of receiving your interim rates notice. Please visit the Landgate website on www.landgate.wa.gov.au or call on (08) 9273 7373.
FAQs
An Interim Rates Notice is issued when there has been a change to your property that affects the amount of rates payable during the financial year.
You may receive an interim notice when changes occur to your property, including:
- Construction of a new building
- Additions or improvements (such as extensions, pools, or garages)
- Demolition of structures
- Subdivision, amalgamation, or creation of a new strata lot.
These changes can affect your property’s valuation and therefore your rates.
Your interim includes:
- Your updated rates balance
- Includes any previously issued charges for the financial year
- Replaces (supersedes) any earlier rates notices issued for your property.
Payment must be made within 35 days from the date of issue shown on your notice. Instalment options may be available in some cases, depending on when the notice is issued during the financial year.
Your rates are based on your property’s Gross Rental Value (GRV):
GRV × Rate in the Dollar = Annual Rates
The City applies a rate in the dollar to the GRV to determine the amount payable.
GRV is an independent valuation set by the Office of the Valuer-General (Landgate).
It represents the estimated annual rental value of your property and is influenced by factors such as:
- Location
- Property type and age
- Size and improvements.
Your GRV may change if:
- A new building is completed
- Improvements or additions are made
- Structures are demolished
- Property boundaries or ownership structures change
- Each change includes an effective date and reason, shown on your interim notice.
Not necessarily.
Although removing structures can reduce value, a different valuation method may apply, and rates may not always decrease.
For vacant land, GRV is calculated using a statutory method:
- 3% of land value for residential land
- 5% of land value for non-residential land.
Valuation changes take effect from the date determined by the Valuer-General and shown on your notice.
Additionally, all properties are subject to a general revaluation every 3 years.
Yes. If you believe your GRV is incorrect, you can lodge an objection with Landgate within 60 days of receiving your notice.
Visit the Landgate website or call (08) 9273 7373 for further information.
Yes. You must still pay your rates by the due date. If your objection is successful:
- Your valuation will be updated
- A revised interim notice will be issued
- Any overpayment will be adjusted.
If your property is part of a settlement, check with your settlement agent before paying. The amount may already be arranged as part of settlement.
