VAT Exemption on widening doors

Maincarer

Hi,

My son has a permanent physical disability and uses a powered wheelchair.  As a result my front door and a door in his bedroom to the garden ( we live in a bungalow) have to be widened.  I have had a quote from a local firm and they have had me fill in a VAT Exemption form.  They state that I have to pay the VAT and then I have to claim it back from HM Customs & Revenue.  This does not sound right to me as in the past when similar work was done the VAT was not charged.

Could someone please advise?  I have tried ringing phone numbers on the Government website but get a recorded message.  

Rodders53

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/vat-relief-on-certain-building-work-if-you-have-a-disability

Absolutely no VAT refund mechanism...  Builder just does not charge (if the modification is exempt - not all changes are).

All in black and white on the website so no need to call them imho.

Grumpy_chap

I am no expert, but when my father needed a downstairs bathroom facility, the builder processed any paperwork and simply did not charge the VAT - there was no paying the VAT and then reclaiming.  

That is only one example and, I must add, a number of years back now as my father passed to the other side.  Procedures may have changed.

easy

No the builder is wrong.  As long as the work done qualifies for exemption,  all that happens is that the builder charges you a price without VAT,  and they keep the VAT exemption form that you have filled in,  to prove to any VAT inspector why they didn't charge you VAT.
It's that simple. 

Albermarle

The builder is either genuinely mistaken/has no experience with the situation, or just does not want any perceived extra hassle with their own accounts.

I know when arranging repairs/service to a disability vehicle (with 0% vehicle tax) they should not be charged with VAT either. However some garages just will not do it - 'Computer says No'