Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about a council tax rebate. This is because it is reasonable for Mr X to appeal to the Valuation Tribunal.

The complaint

1. Mr X complains the Council has refused to give him a reduction in his Council Tax bill when he was unable to use his property due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Mr X says the Council’s actions have caused him frustration and he wants money refunded to him.

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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 Mr X.
5. I considered the Ombudsman’s Assessment Code.
6. The complainant has had an opportunity to comment on my draft decision. I have taken into account observations made before issuing this final decision.

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My assessment

7. Mr X has a right of appeal to the Valuation Tribunal about the Council’s decision not to give him a reduction in his Council Tax bill. It is reasonable to expect Mr X to appeal to the Tribunal if he is unhappy with the Council’s decision.

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Final Decision

8. We will not investigate this complaint. This is because Mr X can appeal to the Valuation Tribunal and it is reasonable in the circumstances of this case for him to do so.

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Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman