old rateable value for domestic property

[muddie]

How was it calculated and why were so many chalet bungalows built in the 40's, 50's & 60's? I seem to recall being told that it was based on the USABLE (i.e. you could stand up in it) floor area of a house, so were chalets a way of reducing your rates bill?
Grateful thanks to anyone who can clearly remember that far back!
muddie

[Naomicorlett]

Square footage was certainly taken into account. I remember having to draw floor plans and calculate the area. Ok on new houses but old farm houses often had to be re-drawn on all the different levels as there was going to be a huge re-valuation of all properties ( this was late 70's early 80's) Garden/grounds were also taken into account .The rateable value was based on the expected rental value at a legally set date in the past.
Certainly a reduced usable floor area ( of a height under 3 foot) would be taken into account.

[Boto]

Garden/grounds were not taken into account. Probably was the fashion in the 60s etc for chalet bungalows.