Emyr Pierce

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Do I need to pay Council Tax for a property while it’s being renovated?

We have bought a very old property that is in need of major renovation and are living in a caravan in the garden while the work is carried out. Should we still be paying the full Council Tax for the property while we are not in it?

Depending on the individual circumstances, you can apply for a Council Tax exemption if the property is unfurnished while the renovation work takes place (eg any furniture could go into storage).

If the property remains furnished while the work is going on then there can be no exemption.

If the exemption is accepted you could receive a 100% exemption for the first six months and up to 50 % exemption for another six months after that.

If you apply for an exemption, the Council is likely to send an inspector around to check the property is unfurnished.

* Emyr Pierce is Managing Partner of Emyr Pierce Solicitors in Rhiwbina, Cardiff, Western Mail Conveyancer of the Year, specialising in Domestic and Commercial Property. Contact www.emyrpierce.co.uk or email law@emyrpierce.co.uk

Am I entitled to Council Tax discount?

My partner and I have a joint tenancy agreement on our flat and are both named on the Council Tax bill. He is a full-time student and exempt from paying Council Tax. Should I be entitled to a single person’s discount?

You are entitled to a single occupier discount. Your partner will need to provide a certificate to the local authority confirming he is a full-time student, at which point you will become entitled to the discount which is 25 per cent of your Council Tax bill.

You will only be entitled to that discount while your partner remains a full-time student and once he completes his course and leaves full-time education he will need to inform the Council of his new situation.