What is a SUIP?

SUIP stands for 'Separately Used or Inhabited Part'. SUIPs are listed in Schedule 3 of the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002 as one of the factors that may be used in calculating liability for targeted rates.  

Examples of Separately Used or Inhabited Parts include: 

• on a residential property, each separately habitable unit, flat, house or apartment. 
• on a commercial property, each separate space intended to be used as a shop or other retail or wholesale outlet, other than that used by the owner. 
• in an office block, each space intended to be used as offices that is or would be used by a different business from the owner.

A separately used habitable unit, flat, house, or apartment is defined as having a separate entrance, kitchen facilities and toilet/bathroom facilities. Kitchen means a room, portion of a room, or covered external area, equipped for the preparation of food, that is not included as part of the toilet/bathroom facilities and incorporates a plumbed sink. 

Horowhenua District Council currently uses SUIPs as a factor in the following rates: 

• Community Centre/Library Rate
• Representation and Community Leadership
• Solid Waste Disposal
• Aquatic Centres
• Wastewater
• Water Supply.