I don’t think I should be paying Council Tax for my property, what should I do?
If you don’t think you’re liable to pay Council Tax, you may be able to appeal.
If you’re not the resident or owner, your property is exempt, or we’ve made a mistake in calculating your bill, you may have cause to appeal. To appeal on these grounds, you must first write to us stating your grievance so your details can be checked.
When making an appeal, you still need to make Council Tax payments while you wait for the decision. If successful, you’ll be entitled to a refund on any overpayments.
What do I do if I think my banding is wrong?
If you believe your band is wrong you can appeal. To do this, write to the Listing Officer (not Ryedale District Council) making a proposal that the band should be altered.
You may only appeal within six months of first becoming a Council Tax payer at your home or if there has been a material change in circumstances (such as demolition of part of the building).
You should appeal to: The Listing Officer, Council Tax North, Valuation Agency, Earle House, Colonial Street, Hull, HU2 8JN. Telephone number 03000 501501 or email the Valuation Agency.
If you’re successful in getting your Council Tax band changed, then the Listing Officer will ask us to amend the valuation list.
You should bear in mind that all Council Tax valuations are based on the property’s value as at 1 April 1991. Any increase or decrease in a dwelling’s value due to housing market fluctuations since 1991 will not affect the banding.
Other reasons for band reductions
There are only limited occasions when taxpayers can challenge their banding, these include:
- After demolition/conversions of houses to flats
- Physical changes in the locality affecting the property’s value
And within six months of:
- A band change to your property made by the Listing Officer
- A band change to a similar property to yours made by the Court
- Becoming a new taxpayer