The Ombudsman's final decision
Summary: We will not investigate this complaint about council tax discounts as this can be appealed to a Valuation Tribunal.
The complaint
Ms X says that the Council have refused her request for council tax discounts as she made the application after she moved out of temporary accommodation.
The Ombudsman’s role and powers
The law says we cannot normally investigate a complaint when someone can appeal to a tribunal. However, we may decide to investigate if we consider it would be unreasonable to expect the person to appeal. (Local Government Act 1974, section 26(6)(a), as amended) The Valuation Tribunal deals with appeals against decisions on council tax liability and council tax support or reduction.
How I considered this complaint
I considered information provided by the complainant.
I considered the Ombudsman’s Assessment Code.
My assessment
Ms X says that she believes she is entitled to a council tax discount as she is a single parent and lives on her own. She says her request was rejected unfairly.
Any dispute about the award of discounts of exemptions can be appealed to a Valuation Tribunal. The tribunal is an independent, expert body whose decisions are binding on the Council. I therefore consider that it would be reasonable to pursue an appeal in this case. She could also ask the Valuation Tribunal to backdate any awards.
Final decision
We will not investigate Ms X’s complaint because she can appeal to a Valuation Tribunal.
Investigator's decision on behalf of the Ombudsman