Summary: Ms X complains that the Council did not award her a single occupancy discount for her council tax. We will not investigate this complaint because she could appeal to a Valuation Tribunal.

The complaint

1. Ms X complains that the Council did not award a single occupancy discount for her council tax.

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 has commented on the draft decision.

Back to top

What I found

5. Ms X says that the Council refused to award her a single occupancy discount for her council tax.
6. Any dispute about entitlement to a council tax discount or exemption 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 she could appeal to a Valuation Tribunal.

Back to top

Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman