Renters in shared housing could see savings of up to £1,000 per year on council tax, following a successful campaign by the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA).
The Government has announced an end to the practice of banding individual rooms in shared houses for council tax purposes, a move that previously placed a heavy financial burden on tenants in such accommodations.
This decision, influenced by persistent efforts from the NRLA, means that houses of multiple occupation (HMOs) will now be treated as a single property for council tax considerations. This change is expected to simplify administrative procedures and reduce costs for tenants and landlords alike.
According to NRLA estimates, the average HMO tenant who was charged council tax on individual rooms could now save around £1,000 annually.
Ben Beadle, chief executive at the National Residential Landlords Association, said: “We are delighted that the government has listened to NRLA and others and will end the unjust practice of charging council tax on individual rooms.
“Not only will it save tenants money, it means landlords will once again be able to let rooms inclusive of council tax, making it easier for renters to budget. We look forward to the necessary changes being implemented without delay.”
