Accommodation
Council Tax
What is Council Tax?
Council Tax is set by the local authorities in England, Scotland
and Wales to help pay for certain services such as libraries and
the emergency services. It is based on the value of the house, flat
or other dwelling in which you live.
How is the level of Council Tax determined?
Properties are classified into eight bands. The amount of tax
levied depends upon the band appropriate to your dwelling and the
tax set by your local authority. In general, the greater the value
of your dwelling, the higher the tax will be. The tax is calculated
on a daily basis, and liable persons are normally entitled to pay
the bill in 10 monthly instalments.
Students living in the private rented sector
If the house you are living in is occupied entirely by students
then you will be exempt from paying Council Tax. If the house has
one or more non-student living in it then the property becomes
liable for Council Tax. It is possible that a student living with a
non-student could be 'the liable person'; therefore, students in
this situation will be legally liable for Council Tax. If you find
yourself in this situation seek advice.
Houses in Multiple Occupation
If a property is classed as a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO)
then the responsibility falls onto the owner even if they do not
live in the property. A property is likely to be classed a HMO if
it contains a number of people who:
- Do not form a single household
- Pay rent separately for a different part of the building
The natural result of this is that the rent may be somewhat
higher than the local average so that the landlord can cover the
cost of the Council Tax, so you may find yourself paying the bill
indirectly.
Proof of Student Status
To satisfy the City Council's requirements for proof of study,
you have to produce a certificate provided by the institution in
which you are studying. An NUS card, ISIC card or College ID is not
sufficient. The College provides certificates to all students who
request one, once registered on a course.