Summary: Ms X disputes liability for Council tax for a period when she was a student. We will not investigate this complaint because there is a right of appeal to a Valuation Tribunal.

The complaint

1. Ms X disputes liability for Council tax for a period when she was a student.

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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.

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How I considered this complaint

4. I considered information provided by the complainant and the Council.
5. I considered the Ombudsman’s Assessment Code.
6. The complainant had an opportunity to comment on a draft of this decision.

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My assessment

7. Ms X says that the Council billed for Council tax for a period when she was a student and exempt.
8. 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.

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Final decision

9. We will not investigate this complaint because there is a right of appeal to a Valuation Tribunal.

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Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman