Time is running out for landlords and agents who want to benefit from a reduction on their rates bills, the government has said.

The Land & Property Services reminded landlords and agents that their rates should be paid in full by 30 September 2009 in order to receive an allowance on the total amount of their bill.

Landlord and agent status is available to all landlords in Northern Ireland who own, and have accepted, rates liability for domestic or business property/properties. This does not include their residential address, second homes or personal holiday homes.

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A spokesperson for the Land & Property Services said: "Landlords can benefit from a 7.5% allowance on the total amount of their bill, if paid in full and credited to the Land & Property Services account by 30 September 2009.

"Those with agent status can benefit from a 15% allowance on the total amount of their bill provided it is paid in full and credited to the Land & Property Services account by the 30 September 2009 also.

"I would remind landlords and agents that they should allow five working days for their payment to be processed if paying via cheque or through the bank or building society. If payment is made via the Post Office, they should allow 10 working days for the Land & Property Services account to be credited.

The spokesman added: "If it is not credited with the full amount by 30 September 2009 they will not receive their allowance."

(PR/KMcA)