Rates Assessors – Vacancy

The Parish are seeking residents who would be interested in joining our team of Rates Assessors. This is an important role within the Parish, helping to ensure that property assessments are fair, consistent and reflect the characteristics of properties across St Saviour.

No previous experience is necessary, as guidance and support will be provided. What matters is a willingness to learn, attention to detail and a fair and impartial approach.

What is a Rates Assessor?

Rates Assessors are elected members of the Parish’s Assessment Committee, responsible for assessing the rateable value of land and property within the Parish in accordance with the Rates (Jersey) Law 2005.

Rateable values are based on a property’s characteristics, including its size, location, accommodation, condition, use and the quality of any buildings or structures. These assessments are used to calculate the rates payable by property owners and occupiers.

Rates Assessors have a specific legal responsibility to assess the rateable value of properties and review assessments when requested. They do not collect rates or issue bills; these administrative duties are carried out by Parish staff.

What does the role involve?

As a Rates Assessor, you will:

• Assess properties: Help determine the rateable value of land and property within the Parish in accordance with the relevant legislation and assessment guidance.
• Review assessments: Consider requests from property owners or occupiers who believe their assessment may be incorrect or unfair.
• Work as part of a team: Work with fellow Assessors to help ensure assessments are fair, consistent and supported by appropriate information.

Follow the legal process: Carry out assessments and reviews in accordance with the Rates (Jersey) Law 2005 and the relevant procedures.

Term of office and time commitment

Rates Assessors are elected by the Parish Assembly for a three-year term of office. Assessors must also swear an oath before the Royal Court to faithfully carry out their duties.

The role is particularly active during the first half of the year, generally from January to June, when the Annual Returns are processed.

Assessors generally meet twice a week January to June. Additional hours may occasionally be required to meet deadlines or to inspect properties outside normal meeting times.

The work is interesting and, at times, challenging, offering the opportunity to learn about places and buildings within the Parish that you might not otherwise be familiar with. It is a valuable role in supporting the Parish’s rating process and helping to ensure that property assessments remain fair and consistent, both within St Saviour and across the Island.

Who can become a Rates Assessor?

To be eligible, you must be a ratepayer in the Parish or be registered as an elector for the Parish in public elections. Parish employees cannot serve as Rates Assessors.

The role requires care, fairness and a willingness to consider property information objectively. Guidance is available to help Assessors understand the assessment process and apply the relevant criteria.

Interested in finding out more?

If you are considering standing for election but would like to understand more about the role, the responsibilities involved or the time commitment required, please contact the Parish Hall.

We would be happy to arrange an informal discussion with Parish secretary Marco or the Connétable to explain the role and answer any questions, with no obligation.

Help support a fair and consistent rates assessment process in St Saviour