A relation of mine took a lease on a shop in a shopping centre 10 weeks ago she has already had a rates bill & a final demand saying that a summons will be issued forthwith. The demand goes on to say that after this no payment will be accepted by the council without costs. There has been a heavy spend on fittings & stock (no credit to first time traders) but the business is geared up for Xmas market & cash flow will be such that the owner should be able to meet the rates bill in about 4 weeks. What if she waits till then ? Maybe she should try to do a deal with the rates office ?