Don’t Be Duped By Council Tax Re-Banding Claims

Rochdale Borough Council is warning residents to be on their guard against cold callers offering them big reductions on their council tax.

There have been reports that companies have been making cold telephone calls or knocking on doors of elderly residents claiming that in return for an upfront fee they can recoup cash because houses are in the wrong council tax band.

While the practice is not illegal, Rochdale Borough Council is instead advising residents not to use these companies and to contact the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) which will reassess properties free-of-charge.

Keith Mackenzie, Head of Revenues and Benefits at Rochdale Borough Council, said: “Some of these individuals and companies have in the past claimed to be from or working with the council and this is incorrect. We’ve never done this and never would. Any resident contacting the Council about their council tax will be signposted directly to the VOA. The VOA does not charge for doing any of this work, so there is no need for residents to be paying individuals or companies to represent them.”

If you believe someone is impersonating staff from Rochdale Borough Council, or a cold caller refuses to leave, call the police non-emergency number on 101, or if you feel threatened dial 999.

If you suspect you have been the victim of one of these companies telephone the Citizen’s Advice Consumer Service on 08454 04 05 06 to report it and to get advice.

For more information on Council Tax banding and how to get your property reassessed call the Valuation Office Agency on 03000 503 600 or visit its website on www.voa.gov.uk/corporate/index.html