Disputing Your Council Tax Arrears

Under Section 6 of the Local Government Finance Act 1992, you are liable for council tax only for the days you reside in the property.

For instance, if the property is empty due to renovation or if it's a second home, the owner is responsible for the council tax.

The council is obligated to consider your request to use its discretionary power to reduce or write off council tax arrears under Section 13A of the Local Government Finance Act 1992.

If the council has charged you for days, you were not a resident, or while the property was empty, or if you qualify for the council tax benefit, you can dispute the charge by making a Stage 1 Formal Complaint.

Should the council not resolve your complaint at Stage 1, you can request a review by a more senior council member, known as a Stage 2 Formal Complaint.

If you remain dissatisfied with the council’s response, you can seek assistance from the Local Government Ombudsman.

The Ombudsman is an independent body that investigates complaints about local councils, including disputes over council tax. They can review your case and provide a decision, which the council is legally bound to follow.