Council tax rebanding

[Ontherun]

Has anyone had experience of applying to have their council tax banding lowered due to other similar properties in their road being on a lower banding?

Just wondering as someone cold-called at the door last night offering to take up the claim along with several other houses in the road. I just checked the GOV website and there is indeed a mix of bandings up & down the road on same size properties.

[Lowlander]

It is possible and quite straightforward, but it's something you do yourself, not collectively, so it does sound like a scam. You have to ask what's in it for them?

http://www.moneysavingexpert.com/reclaim/council-tax-bands-change

[alice]

they'll take a % - for sorting it - fair enough?

[Lowlander]

There is the risk that the property could be allocated into a higher band following the appeal, resulting in increased council tax payments.

If the person explained that risk, and you're happy to accept that risk - and hand over your personal details to randoms knocking on your door - why not?

Personally, I would advise against it, and have a read of the website above. Then appeal yourself if you meet the requirements. 10 minutes max to determine if you're eligible.

Oh, if you do want to use someone to do it for you, they must be registered with the MoJ as a claims handler: http://www.claimsregulation.gov.uk/search.aspx

[Ontherun]

Thanks for the info Lowlander - I can't find details of their company being registered with the MoJ.

They appeal separately on individual properties but are targeting roads in batches. No win no fee but 50% plus VAT of any back dated money on the basis that most people probably can't be bothered to go through the process themselves.

Funny - he didn't mention anything about bands potentially going up!

[Peckhamgatecrasher]

i did it years ago following MSE advice and got a lower band. You can see what other houses/flats in your street pay for council tax and estimate whether it will be granted.

[Lowlander]

You'd be cheaper employing a qualified solicitor do it for you. And no mention of what happens if you get moved into a higher band. Beware!

[JohnL]

if you are one of the higher in the road - surely it wouldn't go up

My flat is C - so I keep quiet :)