Issue - meetings

Report RES12164

The report set out changes under the Local Government Finance Act 2012 which would enable Councils to set locally the level of Council tax discount that could be awarded in certain circumstances from 1^st April 2013. It was confirmed that the legislation had now received Royal Assent. It was proposed that Bromley would apply 0% discount to Second Homes, “Class A” exemption (empty dwellings undergoing major repair) and “Class C” exemption (vacant dwellings), would make no change in respect of “Class L” exemption (liability of mortgagees in possession) and would not apply the Empty Homes Premium in 2013/14.

Executive and Resources PDS Committee had supported the recommendations with the additional comment that a six month grace period should be allowed for Class C exemptions where the homeowner has deceased. This was allowed for in the regulations and the qualifying period would start on 1^st April 2013. Overall, the new arrangements would encourage owners to bring empty properties back into use more quickly.  

RESOLVED that the following options be approved –

·  0% discount be applied to Second Homes from 01 April 2013;

·  0% discount be applied to “Class A” exemption from 01 April 2013;

·  0% discount be applied to “Class C” exemption from 01 April 2013;

·  No change be made in respect of “Class L” exemption;

·  The Empty Homes Premium not be applied for the financial year 2013/14.

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