Care homes and sheltered housing would not be included in the proposals as they are categorised as domestic premises.

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Business rates are charged on most non-domestic premises, including shops, offices, pubs and factories, and are used to pay for services like the police and fire brigade.

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Legislation came into force in May 2004 which requires the organisation in control of any non domestic premises, or the common parts on domestic premises, to identify and assess asbestos in those premises.

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