council tax rebanding

calicocat

Hi, wondering what the best thing is to do in this situation.

I have had a letter saying someone is coming out friday to look at rebanding my house (I have just moved in 3 weeks ago). Previous owner had turned the garage into a play room for one of her kids. The website states that I don't have to let anyone in,but letter infurs that they want access to look inside property.

Is it better to let them in or not.???

The room is at present being used as a dining room so don't know if this makes a difference as I think previous owner had at some point also used it as a bedroom.

There are other houses in my street with this conversion who are still on the band I am at present, and I have checked it is in the correct band for the 1991 evaluation.


Can they just up it? And is it on rooms, bedrooms, or value of property as it's a bit confusing.?

Thanks for any replies.

[Deleted User]

Hi,

it may be because of change of ownership that a revaluation is necessary.

I think that any change of use whilst still living in house does not affect the valuation but will do if sold.

Have a look here.

lincroft1710

When alterations are carried out to a dwelling the CT band can't be increased until after the next sale. The VOA may be able to ascertain what has happened by an external inspection. If an inspection is refused, they will just assume the extension is worthy of a band increase and act accordingly.

CT bands are based on 1991 property values, so if the pre-conversion value was at or near the top of the band, it may increase. Only the VOA will know the definite answer.

antrobus

lincroft1710 wrote: »

...CT bands are based on 1991 property values, ...

In England and Scotland. In Wales they're based on 2003 values. Might make a difference to someone.:)

lincroft1710

antrobus wrote: »

In England and Scotland. In Wales they're based on 2003 values. Might make a difference to someone.:)

I know that only too well, but wasn't up to full posting strength so early in the day!

calicocat

lincroft1710 wrote: »

I know that only too well, but wasn't up to full posting strength so early in the day!

I work night shifts....not an insomniac.

I think the best thing then is to just accept it's going to go up and let them in to see what the garage conversion is as it sounds like I have to accept i'm going to be paying more than I had planned.

Thanks for replies folks.