Tenant Guide: Council Tax
I’ve just moved in, what do I need to do?
The initial step is to inform your local authority about your recent move. To do this, conduct an online search using the query ‘Council tax change in circumstances’ followed by the name of your local authority. For instance, if you reside in Birmingham, your search should be ‘Council tax change in circumstances Birmingham City Council.’
Most local authorities offer a user-friendly online system for Council Tax registration. You will be required to provide the names of all individuals residing in the property with you, as well as the date your tenancy commenced. It’s crucial to note that your responsibility to pay Council Tax commences on the first day of your tenancy, not the day you physically moved in.
Subsequently, the council will establish an account for you and communicate the precise amount of Council Tax owed. If you believe that exemptions may apply, such as the occupants being full-time students, you will need to apply for that exemption, please see below for more details.
How much is it?
Council Tax is a tax imposed by local authorities (council’s) in the UK to help fund essential public services such as education, waste collection, and local infrastructure. The cost of Council Tax varies depending on several factors.
Step One – Find our what council tax band your property is
Each property is assigned to one of eight Council Tax bands (A to H), with Band A being the lowest and H being the highest. The tax amount increases with the property’s value, with Band A being the least expensive and Band H being the most expensive.
All property adverts should include the council tax banding letter.
You can find out what council tax band your property is here. You will also be told what local authority your property is in, you’ll need that for the next step.
Step One – Find our what the council tax is in your area for your council tax band
Different local authorities set their Council Tax rates, so the cost may vary based on where your property is located.
Click on the links below to find out what the council tax rate is in your local authority / council. If your council isn’t listed, search online for “your council name council tax rates”.
West Midlands
Birmingham City Council
East Midlands
Nottingham City Council
Leicester City Council
Broxtowe Borough Council
South West
Bristol City Council
Discounts and Exemptions
Students: If all the residents in the property are full-time students, you might be eligible for a Council Tax exemption. Students are not counted for Council Tax purposes, so the property may be exempt from payment. However, certain criteria must be met, and you should inform your local council of your student status to claim this exemption.
Bare in mind, the student exemption will likely end at the same time your course ends, so if your course ends on the 31st May, but your tenancy ends on the 30th June, the council will likely ask you to pay council tax for the month of June.
If all but one of the occupants is classified as a student and therefore exemption, council tax will still need to be paid, however, you will be entitled to a 25% single occupancy discount.
Depending on where you study, the way to apply for the student exemption will be different. Some councils work closely with local authorities and send them your information so all you have to do is make sure your university account has your correct term time address. In other areas you may be required to obtain a certificate from your university and provide a copy to the council along side an application form. Google “your local authority student council tax exemption” to find out what you need to do.
In some areas, Purple Frog will process your council tax exemptions for you.
| Local Authority | University | Student Exemption Process |
| Birmingham City Council | University of Birmingham | One person from each house hold should complete the application form. You will not normally need to supply an exemption certificate. |
| Aston University | Students should apply for a council tax exemption certificate through the universities MAP system which will be sent to the council. | |
| Birmingham City University | Your faculty at BCU will either inform the council of your status automatically or you may need to complete an exemption form which you will find here |
Single Occupancy Discount: If you are the only adult living in the property, you might be entitled to a 25% discount on your Council Tax.
Disabilities and Medical Conditions: Some residents with specific disabilities or medical conditions might be eligible for a Council Tax reduction or exemption.
Annexes and Second Homes: In certain cases, properties designated as annexes or second homes may be eligible for reduced Council Tax rates.
Uninhabitable Property: If your property is deemed uninhabitable or undergoing major renovations, you may qualify for a Council Tax exemption.
Council Tax Support: If you are on a low income, you may be eligible for Council Tax Support, a means-tested benefit that assists with Council Tax payments. Contact your local council to check your eligibility and apply for support.
How Do I Pay It?
Shortly after you move into a property you should receive a letter/bill from the council explaining what to pay and how to pay it. These letters might be addressed to “The householder” or similar, so make sure to open them. If you don’t receive a letter within a few weeks it’s your responsibility to get in touch with the council and let them know who lives there and they will send you a bill.
Most council’s allow you have an online account which makes accessing your bills and paying them easier.
Most council’s will allow you to pay upfront in full, or monthly by direct debit.
Councils tend to be very strict on payment and will issue court proceedings and instruct bailiffs to attend your house if you don’t pay or make a payment arrangement so don’t ignore their letters! if you are struggling to pay, get in touch and they are obliged to work with you to work out a suitable payment arrangement.
Important
Remember, it’s essential to keep your local council informed of any changes in your circumstances that might affect your Council Tax liability or eligibility for exemptions. If you have any questions or need assistance with Council Tax matters, don’t hesitate to contact our team. We are here to help you navigate this aspect of your tenancy and ensure a smooth experience during your time with us.