Moving, council tax - Pay both?

Coume

Hello,

I am currently renting a flat with a lease ending Mid-May.
I will be moving in with my gf on April 16th and my current flat will be empty for almost an entire month.

Do I need to pay council tax for both property, meaning that I pay for almost 3-4weeks of council tax for a flat I don't live in anymore?
Or do I simply need to pay the council tax for my new house from April 16th and stop paying the council tax from my studio on the same day?

Thanks in advance.
Ludo

tyler80

It depends on the council. If it's unfurnished and empty you can claim an empty home exemption, but how much this discount is varies. Some councils charge nothing for empty homes for first 6 months, others charge 50% etc.

sooz

You are responsible for all bills until the end of your AST, unless you have agreed an early surrender with your landlord ( if you do, get it in writing!)

However, if you inform the council that the property is empty, unfurnished & unoccupied you can get a 100% reduction. If the flat is furnished it might only be 10% reduction. It depends on the individual council policy. Have a look on your council's website.



What he said above- I spent too long typing

Coume

Thanks Guys.

I was 99.99% sure I would have to pay both...

Thanks
Ludo