Council Tax if parents staying with me.

trailingspouse

Not sure if this is in the right place, but here goes.

My parents are elderly (92 and 87) but currently living independently. They would like to come to stay with me for an extended period over the winter (probably November to the end of February or thereabouts). They fully intend to return home and continue to live independently after this period - they're looking at it as a long holiday.

Where do we all stand regards Council Tax? I currently claim the 25% single persons allowance, they currently pay the full amount. 

MattMattMattUK

In theory, as soon as they start "living" in the property then you need to declare that to the council. Now this might be complicated by them paying council tax elsewhere, nominally still being domiciled at their primary residence, but it would not be a battle I would want with a council.

On top of that there may well be issues with their home insurance leaving the house unoccupied for that period of time, do they plan to heat it, drain everything down and turn off the water systems etc.?

Also, please do not take this as a slight on your parents, but have you thought of the impact on you (and potentially your partner, if there is one) of you have your parents living with you for four months? 

gbhxu

Probably best to:-

1) Ask your council if you'll have to pay full CT while your relatives stay with you

2) Ask your Parents' council if they still have to pay their CT while they are living with you

trailingspouse

Many thanks.

MattMattMatt - thanks for your concern. It's appreciated. I have thought about it, and it's not something I'm taking on lightly. There is no partner, and I'm an only child, so yes, it isn't going to be easy - but it's the sensible thing to do. And it's a big enough house that we can all have our own space!