WARRINGTON Borough Council has issued a warning that some council taxpayers could be paying “pointless” fees to companies cold-calling residents claiming to be able to cut their council tax bills.
Some companies are phoning council taxpayers claiming that they can recoup hundreds of pounds in overpaid council tax, or have residents’ property re-valued to a lower council tax band – in return for big fees.
But senior officers at the council are pointing out that the fees are “pointless” – because any over-payments or re-banding issues can already be dealt with for free.
According to reports from local authorities and the police, these companies can charge as much as £175 – as well as asking for 25 per cent of any reduction achieved.
But Lynton Green, the council’s chief finance officer, said: “It simply isn’t necessary for residents to pay these fees. If anyone is entitled to a refund, the council will pay it. And if anyone’s property does need to be revalued, this can be arranged by contacting the local Valuation Office Agency.
“Our official advice is that no resident should be taken in by such an approach.”
Mr Green added: “Sadly, it’s often the most vulnerable residents who get targeted for things like this.
Whilst not acting illegally, some of these businesses survive by using heavy-handed sales tactics, building false hopes and operating just within the letter of the law.
“If you think your property is in the wrong council tax band, please just contact the
Valuation Office Agency in Manchester on 03000 501501.
“And to report incidents of bogus callers, call the police on the new non-emergency
number, 101, and please call Warrington Trading Standards on 08454 040506.”
WARRINGTON Borough Council has issued a warning that some council
taxpayers could be paying “pointless” fees to companies cold-calling
residents claiming to be able to cut their council tax bills.
Council warning over cold-calling
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Gary Skentelbery
Experienced journalist for more than 40 years. Managing Director of magazine publishing group with three in-house titles and on-line daily newspaper for Warrington. Experienced writer, photographer, PR consultant and media expert having written for local, regional and national newspapers. Specialties: PR, media, social networking, photographer, networking, advertising, sales, media crisis management. Chair of Warrington Healthwatch Director Warrington Chamber of Commerce Patron Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace. Trustee Warrington Disability Partnership. Former Chairman of Warrington Town FC.
