Summary: Ms X complains about the Council’s decision to hold her liable for council tax on a property. We will not investigate this complaint because there is a right of appeal to a Valuation Tribunal.

The complaint

1. Ms X complains about the Council’s decision to hold her liable for council tax on a property.

Back to top

The Ombudsman’s role and powers

2. The law says we cannot normally investigate a complaint when someone can appeal to a tribunal. However, we may decide to investigate if we consider it would be unreasonable to expect the person to appeal. (Local Government Act 1974, section 26(6)(a), as amended)
3. The Valuation Tribunal deals with appeals against decisions on council tax liability and council tax support or reduction.

Back to top

How I considered this complaint

4. I have considered the comments of the complainant and the Council and the complainant was given an opportunity to comment on the draft decision.

Back to top

What I found

5. Ms X says that the Council billed her for council tax on a property she does not lease.
6. Any dispute about liability for council tax can be appealed to a Valuation Tribunal. The Tribunal is an expert body and their decisions are binding on the Council. I see no reason why an appeal could not be made in this case.

Back to top

Final decision

7. I do not intend to investigate this complaint because there is a right of appeal to a Valuation Tribunal.
    

Back to top

Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman