Moving house signifies a fresh start, but amidst all the excitement, managing your council tax responsibilities can often take a backseat. In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about council tax in relation to your move.
It may not be the most exciting of topics, but it's certainly something you don't want to overlook. Join us as we answer some of the most important questions about council tax and moving home.
What happens to my council tax when I move house?
Moving house can trigger a shift in council tax responsibilities. You will need to let your local authority know that you are moving out if you want to avoid an overlap or double billing. At the same, you'll also need to register at your new address to avoid missing any payments.
How does council tax work when moving house?
Council tax applies to all domestic properties and is determined by property bands. When you move, the responsibility for council tax payment changes from the previous occupants to you. Registering at your new address ensures that you're correctly billed for the property you now occupy.
How do council tax bands work and what will my new one be?
All homes in the UK are assessed based on certain criteria and then assigned a band. Generally speaking, bands are determined by the value of the property and the area it sits in, as well as your living situation. For example, if you live alone, then you are eligible for 25% off your council tax bill.
Additionally, if all the occupants of a house are registered students, then the home is exempt from paying any council tax at all. You can find out more about this on the GOV website.
If you want to know what your council tax will cost you before you move in, then you can look this up by checking the band on the GOV website. All you need is the address of the property, including the postcode.
What information do I need to cancel my current council tax payments?
When it comes to contacting your local council to cancel your current council tax payments, here's all the information that you'll need to provide them with:
Your council tax reference number
Your name, current address and phone number,
The date you are moving out
If you were renting the property, then you should provide the date your tenancy agreement ends as well as your landlord's details
Having all of this information to hand can avoid any delays in cancellation.
How do I set up council tax at my new place?
To set up your council tax at your new home, you will need to contact your local council and provide them with all your details, such as your name, new address and move in date. You may need to provide further information about the property and who will be living there. This step ensures that you're correctly billed from the date you take occupancy, preventing any delays or complications in your billing schedule.
Can I get a council tax refund when I move house?
Yes, in certain situations, you may be eligible for a refund on your council tax if you paid in advance and moved out before the billing period ended. Your local council will let you know when you cancel if you are eligible for a refund.
What if I am moving within the same council?
If you are moving house to an area managed by the same council, you will still need to let them know. But instead of cancelling, you should let them know about your change of address. Then they may adjust your council tax bill accordingly. For instance, your new property may sit in a lower or higher council tax band, or you may lose your single person's discount because you are moving in with someone, etc.
Moving house?
Moving house involves more than just relocating all your belongings. It requires you to juggle lots of different responsibilities — managing your council tax being one of them. By notifying the relevant authorities, settling your outstanding balance, cancelling your council tax at your current address and promptly registering at the new one, you can secure a hassle-free transition.
If you need any more support when it comes to moving house, we've got heaps of advice for you! Check out these super helpful guides:
Plus, you can find heaps more over at our advice hub!
Alternatively, if you're moving home and need some help with the practical side of things, then why not sit back and let Saint Removals do everything for you. We have full and partial packing and removal services available, as well as storage options available too! So you can mix and match our services to suit you. Plus, with over 25 years of combined experience in the industry, you can rest assured that you're in safe hands with us.