The Ombudsman's final decision
Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about council tax banding as this is against a body out of jurisdiction.
The complaint
Mr X complains about a decision of the Valuation Office Agency regarding council tax banding of his holiday home.
The Ombudsman’s role and powers
We investigate complaints about councils and certain other bodies. We cannot investigate the actions of bodies such as the Valuation Office Agency. (Local Government Act 1974, sections 25 and 34A, as amended)
How I considered this complaint
I considered information provided by the complainant.
I considered the Ombudsman’s Assessment Code.
My assessment
Mr X disputes the Valuation Office Agency’s decision regarding his second home. He appealed to a Valuation Tribunal.
The Valuation Office Agency is out of our jurisdiction and so the Ombudsman cannot investigate the complaint. Mr X can complain to the Parliamentary Ombudsman although this would be restricted as he appealed to a Valuation Tribunal.
Final decision
We will not investigate Mr X’s complaint because it is against a body out of jurisdiction.
Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman