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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Lifestyle
Albert Toth

You might be paying too much council tax. Here’s what to do about it

VoA
  • Thousands of UK households may be overpaying on council tax due to outdated property valuations.
  • Homeowners can challenge their council tax band if similar nearby properties are in a lower band and their home's estimated 1991 value justifies a lower band.
  • Martin Lewis advises using online calculators to estimate a property's 1991 value based on its purchase price.
  • Challenges can be made formally to the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) or through an informal review, though the VOA is not obligated to conduct informal reviews.
  • Council tax bands can change due to property alterations, changes in local areas, or improvements made after purchase.
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