These can be of great value for tracing the names of owners and householders, and the values of their properties. Although a small number date back to the 16th century, survivals are particularly good from the later 18th century onwards. Houses are often listed on a street-by-street basis, and changes of occupant can be traced by comparing the information in the most recent rate books with that in earlier books. Check with your local record office to see whether they hold a good run of rate books for your area.