Do I have to pay council tax?

[Scarlett]

My tenant moved out last month so my house is now empty until a new tenant can be found. It is unfurnished although there are a few bits and pieces in there like a sofa and desk. No beds, mattresses, kitchen stuff etc. The council have said I have to pay £110 per month. I am disabled and on benefits- no way can I find this as well as paying the mortgage whilst it's empty. Any ideas gratefully received.

[Traci66]

If you empty it out they may offer a short term exemption, they did when one of my properties were empty, or reduce the rates to 50%. Good luck.

[hc4361]

You should apply to your council for a Class C Exemption for an unfurnished property. The rate varies from council to council.

[bednobs]

i would ask the council why they are levying council tax on an unoccupied and empty property (you can usually get an exemption for six months) - they may have a reason. Have you told them it's unoccupied?
If you have to pay, and you can't get a tenant, the other option would be to sell the house

[Scarlett]

Thanks- I have written to them again. The reason there are odd bits in the house is that I currently live in a room in a shared flat, and simply couldn't move the sofa and desk. I thought it would be better used by the tenant as it was good condition etc. It would be difficult to move the stuff out - not sure where I could put it without paying a lot on storage, in which case I may as well pay the council tax bill!

[bednobs]

if you are renting unfurnished anyway, why not give it away on freecycle, or take it to the tip?

[buildersmate]

The reason why some councils levy CT on empty properties is because they can. Some do, some don't and some offer partial exemptions. It will entirely depend on the policy your council operates. HC's advice is sound. There's no escaping it if a levy is made.

[Scarlett]

Just cos it cost me £1400 and is a really great sofa! I would have it up here but have no room. It's very big and only fits in the very bit flat which I'm renting out. Maybe if I get a big house up here I'll take it back but for now it has to stay there...

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