Why a VOA letter now ???

Mystic_CT

I purchased my 2 bed detached bungalow in the West Midlands for £185,000 in March 2021. Small garden at the front and rear of the property. Narrow one car width drive to the right-handside. Basic bungalow. Council Tax Band 'C'. 

The property was bought by the only other owner in September 1978 for £2,300. Using the MSE calculator, that gave a valuation of £8,999 in 1991. Putting the bungalow in Band 'A'.

In September 2006, she had the front of the bungalow extended by 3.23 m which gave her a longer lounge and front bedroom. This extension was built over the front lawn. No other work was carried out.

So, yesterday I received a letter from VOA in Durham out of the blue informing me that the previous owner's alterations/improvements may increase my Council Tax within one month!

I'm really worried about that prospect. Any advice/enlightenment would be really appreciated. Thanks.

JGB1955

see Council Tax band changes - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
"A property that’s increased in size may move to a higher band when it’s next purchased."
This seems to be your situation.....

lincroft1710

I don't what sort of detached bungalow you could have bought for £2,300 in 1978, or £9,000 in 1991, but at those prices it sounds very much like a defective pre-fab. If you use the Nationwide House Price calculator (and all HPCs are inaccurate, underestimating 1991 values) but you get just over £52,000, so Band C.


As JGB has said the CT band may be increased but equally it may still remain in the same band. Sorry, but you will just have to wait and see. If the band is increased you can appeal the increase.