PROPERTY VALUATION

When valuating a property the valuer thereafter processes the valuation roll. This is a compilation of property values. Property valuation is aimed at ensuring that the rate burden is fairly distributed among the rate payers of Manzini. If a property owner disagrees with the value given to his property the Rating Act allows him to lodge a complaint with the valuation court. The minister, for the purpose of hearing objections, also appoints a court. The objections must be lodged within the time stipulated in the notice of valuation.

POINTS TO REMEMBER

* Rates are charged based on the value of immovable property.

* A property owner may object against the value given to his property to the valuation court.

* The valuation court deals strictly with discrepancies in property values and not rates.

* Complaints pertaining to rates are attended to by Council.

* The form attached to the notice of valuation should be used for lodging objections

* An objection should be lodged within the time indicated in the notice of valuation.

OPTIONS FOR RATES PAYMENT

* Cash

* Bank guaranteed cheques

* Electronically (cash cards)

* Postal/money order

DIFFERENTIAL RATING

The rates differ according to the following designations:

1.Residential properties - These are properties exclusively used for residential purposes

2. Commercial 1 properties - These are properties on Central Business District (CBD)

3. Commercial 2 properties - These are commercial businesses in townships and outside the CBD

4. Urban farm land - Any farm more than 10 hectares

5. Government properties - All properties owned by government in the city

6. Vacant land commercial - Land in the commercial district with no structure erected and not being put to use

A rates booklet is available from Council with all the details on the rates,