Question 1

What is a Section 24 VOA appeal?

Accepted Answer

A Section 24 appeal is a formal proposal made under Section 24 of the Local Government Finance Act 1992 asking the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) to reassess your property's council tax band. If the VOA accepts that the band was set too high when the property was first listed on 1 April 1991, your band is lowered and your council tax charges — and any backdated amounts — are reduced accordingly.

Question 2

How do I challenge my council tax band in England and Wales?

Accepted Answer

First check whether your band is correct by comparing your home with similar nearby properties and estimating its 1 April 1991 value. If you believe the band is wrong, submit a formal proposal (challenge) to the Valuation Office Agency setting out the property details, your valuation evidence, and the band you believe is correct. The VOA may request further information and can confirm or change the band. CivicHome UK automates the audit and generates the Section 24 proposal letter for you.

Question 3

What evidence is required by the Valuation Office Agency?

Accepted Answer

The Valuation Office Agency typically considers evidence such as the property's 1 April 1991 valuation, sale prices of comparable properties in the area, the current council tax bandings of similar neighbouring homes, and property characteristics including size, type, age, and any layout changes since 1991. Clear, comparable valuation evidence gives a Section 24 proposal the best chance of success.

Challenge Your Council Tax Band & Claim Back-Refunds

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