London Borough of Newham (25 029 277)
Category : Benefits and tax > Council tax
Decision : Closed after initial enquiries
Decision date : 14 Apr 2026
The Ombudsman's final decision:
Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about a Council tax reduction because there is a right of appeal to a valuation tribunal.
The complaint
- Mr X complains that the Council has not awarded a Council tax reduction.
The Ombudsman’s role and powers
- The law says we cannot normally investigate a complaint when someone has a right of appeal, reference or review to a tribunal about the same matter. However, we may decide to investigate if we consider it would be unreasonable to expect the person to use this right. (Local Government Act 1974, section 26(6)(a), as amended)
- The Valuation Tribunal deals with appeals against decisions on council tax liability and council tax support or reduction.
How I considered this complaint
- I considered information provided by the complainant.
- I considered the Ombudsman’s Assessment Code.
My assessment
- Mr X says that the Council has failed to properly consider his request for a Council tax reduction.
- The Council advised him that he can appeal to the valuation tribunal himself if he disagrees with the Council’s decision. The valuation tribunal is an independent body which can determine any disputes about liability, discounts or exemptions from Council tax. I see no reason why such an appeal could not be made in this case.
- I appreciate that Mr X is unhappy with the time taken to consider his request but any injustice would be speculative whilst an appeal is in process.
Final decision
- We will not investigate Mr X’s complaint because he has a right of appeal to a valuation tribunal.
Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman