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Council Tax Discounts and Exemptions

Please use the links below to jump to the sections you wish to view, or scroll down this page to view the sections in order.

Council Tax Discount
Second Homes and Empty Properties
Disabled Persons Relief
Exemptions
Contact Details

Could I get a discount on my Council Tax?

The full Council Tax bill assumes that there are two adults living in a property. If only one adult lives there (as their main home), the Council Tax bill will be reduced by a quarter (25%). You can apply for a single person's discount by either calling at the office for a form or by ringing 01691 677320 or e-mailing counciltax@oswestry-bc.gov.uk

N.B. - you should also let us know if someone moves in with you and you are no longer entitled to the 25% discount.

Holiday Homes, Second Homes and Long Term Empty Properties

With effect from 1st April 2004, the legislation has changed regarding the above classes of property. A summary of these changes is shown below:

Holiday Homes

These are properties which are furnished but no one's sole or main residence and where a planning condition restricts continuous occupation for more than 28 days, or where planning permission was granted on the basis that the property was a holiday home.

Second Homes

These are properties which are furnished but are no one's main residence but where there are no planning restrictions preventing permanent occupation.
The above classes of property qualify for 10% discount.

Long Term Empty properties

These are defined as properties which are unoccupied and unfurnished where a previous exemption has expired.  The owner will be charged the full council tax for the property.
The aim is to enourage owners to bring empty property back into use, either through letting it or by selling it to someone who will occupy it.

If a property is undergoing major repair work which is in its second year it may qualify for a 25% discount.  This will depend upon how long the property has been empty and the nature of the work.

Disabled Persons Relief

If you, or someone who lives with you, needs a room, or an extra bathroom or kitchen, or extra space in your property to meet special needs arising from a disability, you may be entitled to a reduced Council Tax bill. The bill may be reduced to that of a property in the band immediately below the band shown on your bill. These reductions ensure that disabled people do not pay more council tax on account of space needed because of a disability.

If you think your property may qualify, please contact the Council Tax section with your name, address and telephone number. We will then arrange to visit your property to assess if you qualify for this relief.

Exemptions

Some dwellings are exempt, i.e. there is no Council Tax payable - including properties occupied only by students, people under 18 and some vacant properties.

The types of empty property which are exempt are shown in the leaflet which accompanies your Council Tax bill. If you think your property may qualify, please contact the Council Tax section

Contact Details

Oswestry Borough Council
Council Tax
Castle View
Oswestry
Shropshire
SY11 1JR

Tel: 01691 677320
Email: counciltax@oswestry-bc.gov.uk