UK households face 'quadruple' council tax bill over one common asset

UK households with second homes could see their council tax bills effectively quadruple under proposals being considered by the Treasury. The government is examining plans to double council tax rates for properties in the highest valuation bands, G and H, as part of efforts to raise an additional £9.4 billion by April 2029. These proposed increases would be applied on top of the existing second-home premium, which in over 200 council areas already doubles the standard rate. This compounding effect means that around 17,000 properties in bands G and H that are second homes and located in these premium areas could face charges four times the base amount. For instance, a primary resident in band G currently pays around £3,800 annually; under these proposals, a second home in a premium area in the same band could be charged up to £15,200, and potentially more if the second-home premium is also increased. Data shows that 23,103 second homes nationwide fall into bands G and H, with a significant concentration in southern and western regions. Areas like Rutland, Dorset, Wealden, and Lewes are expected to see the steepest increases, with some band H second homes potentially facing annual bills exceeding £21,000. These changes are intended to generate substantial revenue for cash-strapped local councils. Critic... download the app to read more