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In this issue:
On 1 December 2023, a new Statutory Instrument came into effect that treats HMOs as single dwellings for the purposes of Council Tax in England, and places liability for Council Tax payments on the owner of the HMO. This change covers only HMOs defined by Section 254 of the Housing Act 2004 – ie, houses rented to unrelated persons with shared amenities. It does not cover HMOs defined by Section 257 – ie, properties that have been wholly converted into self-contained flats.
Read further information about the changes.
We have been contacted by some landlords who have received Council Tax bills for their Section 257 properties as though they have been affected by these changes. Council Tax bands are set by the Valuation Office, which is a national body separate from the Council. Although the Council is a statutory billing authority and administers the collection of council tax, it has no power or ability to set or amend council tax rates. If you believe that your property is being charged incorrectly, please appeal directly to the Valuation Office.
Unfortunately, neither this department nor the Council Tax department is able to alter council tax bands.
Please note that properties occupied wholly by students in full time education are still exempt from council tax payments; this has not been affected by the new SI.
Following a very well attended Landlords' Forum on 13 March 2024, we are now able to share slides relating to the Pathfinder Project and HMO consultation. The NRLA are unable to provide their slides due to their time sensitive nature.
Thank you for attending if you were able and we would remind everyone who has not yet engaged with the consultation that they still have the opportunity to do so and we would encourage participation. Please give your opinions in the questionnaire : www.coventry.gov.uk/hmoconsultation
We want to work with you to improve housing in the city. If you want to get in touch with any questions please, contact the team:
Email: hmo@coventry.gov.uk
Telephone: 024 7697 5467
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