Reclaiming council tax for house already sold

DenDen_3

I have successfully had our existing house rebanded and received a refund. I would now like to get a refund for our previous house as I believe this too was in the incorrect banding and I was overcharged for 9 years.

I have contacted the relevant authority and told them my reasons (i.e. in 1991 the house was not worth the amount of money that the band covered).

The authority has refused. They did originally also say that they would not give refunds to people who no longer live at the address in question. However, I replied saying that when I received a refund for my existing house, numerous letters and refunds were sent addressed to the previous occupier (i.e. they gained after I made the challenge).

After explaining this, they have now refused to let me make a formal challenge on the basis that I no longer live at this address and have no legal interest in the property. They have said that if I can show compelling reasons why the band should be reviewed they would consider instigating a review themsleves. BUT, if this results in a band alteration, they will only notify the existing owners - NOT US. We would have to keep checking the band on their website and then, if it is reduced, we can enquire about a refund then.

I don't agree with their argument that as I no longer have a legal interest in the property, I cannot claim - based on the fact that I can still reclaim final mortgage charges once the mortgage has finished and, also, bank charges, even if I no longer hold an account with the bank etc.

Has anyone else come accross this? I do not want to argue with them and find out the new owners get a refund and I don't, after all my hard work. Surely, if I have been overcharged, it shouldn't matter that I no longer live at this address?

Please help!

Thanks very much.

Mike_S_8

DenDen,

Great that you are fighting your corner! If more of us did it the whole country would be in much better shape.

Re. your council tax problem - and I guess you may already have spoken with them(?) - your local Citizens Advice Bureau may be able to help.

Also - and if you feel so inclined - you may be interested to know about the Isitfair council tax protest campaign ( www.isitfair.co.uk ). Some of the contributors to the forum there may be able to provide advice or assistance with your fight.

Regards,

Mike S
Isitfair in S. Hants

emeraldbugle

I contacted the local office the day our property sold, unfortunately I contacted the wrong office!! They refused to acknowledge this when I queried the banding (after we had then moved out), even though I had email evidence. They would only deal with the current owners. I think it is ridiculous after having paid for the tax on the property for at least 10 years. I have contacted my local MP about it. Maybe try contacting yours too.