Warning over council tax cold callers

ROTHERHAM residents are being asked to keep their eye out for companies claiming they can reduce householder's council tax bills.

Council officials said that they had received reports of companies cold calling householders, and posting leaflets through letterboxes claiming that for a fee they would “investigate” a possible change to the property’s council tax banding.

In fact, residents can do the same themselves for free.

The service being offered is not illegal, but Rotherham Borough Council’s trading standards officers are advising people that it is a relatively simple process to check if you are in the correct Council Tax band, and there is no need to pay over £100 to a company offering to do this for you.

A spokesman said: “If somebody arrives on your doorstep and tries to sell you any kind of service, we would strongly recommend that you don’t agree to any work or pay them any money until you have had time to think about what they have said.

“This includes people offering building work and other services such as council tax rebanding or debt management advice.

“If you are at all unsure about the services being offered, take the opportunity to discuss it with friends, relatives or neighbours - or give Consumer Direct a call on 08454 040506.

“You should never give anybody access to your home unless you are absolutely sure of their identity, if in doubt close and lock the door.

“If you feel threatened or intimidated in any way, then contact the police by dialling 999.

“Not only is appealing against your Council Tax band a simple and free process, there is no guarantee it will change and could even go up.”

By going to the Rotherham Borough Council website and searching for 'council tax', you can browse all the information regarding your Council Tax band and view all your options.

Alternatively, you can also call the council tax department on 01709 336006 and discuss your options.

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