Commercial rates are local authority charges on non-domestic properties, such as shops, offices and warehouses, and are generally paid by the occupier to help fund local services. Domestic properties are not normally liable for commercial rates; homeowners may instead face charges such as Local Property Tax, along with any applicable service or utility costs. The amount and basis of each charge differ, and a property used partly for business may be assessed differently from a wholly residential home. Check with your local authority and Revenue, or seek professional guidance, to confirm how the rules apply to a particular property.