HOUSEHOLDS are being warned they could be slapped with more council tax rises after already record increases.
The Government has announced fees charged by some local authorities for leaving DIY waste at recycling centres will be scrapped.
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DIY waste is anything that comes from building or renovation work and generated in the home, such as old plaster board.
The changes mean councils will treat DIY waste the same as household waste and could save people £10 per item.
Meanwhile, it is hoped the move will discourage people from fly-tipping, which cost the Government £924million last year.
But homeowners are being warned the changes could actually see council’s pass on the cost of the ban through council tax hikes.
It comes as data from the Taxpayer’s Alliance revealed the average annual band D council tax bill has increased by 79% in the 30 years since 1993.
Some council’s hiked bills by as much as 15% year-on-year in 2023.
Cllr Darren Rodwell, environment spokesperson for the Local Government Association said: “Where councils are no longer able to charge for DIY waste at recycling centres the cost will be passed to all householders, including households that do not have a car and those with no possibility of carrying out building works, for example people living in rented accommodation.
“Evidence from councils and WRAP (Waste and Resources Action Programme) does not show a link between charges and fly-tipping.
“We support a crackdown on fly-tipping and that is why we are calling for a review of sentencing guidelines to magistrates to ensure that penalties reflect the seriousness of the offence.”
It comes as the Government takes a number of measures to tackle waste issues, including the introduction of the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) scheme.
The scheme means firms supplying household packaging will have to pay for the costs of disposing of it.
Darren added: “Manufacturers should also contribute to the costs to councils of clear up, by providing more take-back services so people can hand in sofas, old furniture and mattresses when they buy new ones.
“Councils are still waiting for the implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility, a policy that would see producers take responsibility for much of the waste recycling centres handle, and lessening the burden on waste services.”
How can I reduce my council tax bill?
If this year’s council tax bill rises have left you out of pocket, there are some ways you can cut costs.
Depending on your circumstances, you might be able to get a discount, including if you are single, a retiree or on a low income.
The discount you’re entitled to varies. For example if you’re on the Guarantee Credit element of Pension Credit, you could get 100% off.
You have to apply via your local council to see what specific help is available.
If you don’t know what council area you fall under, you can use the Government’s council locator tool on its website.
Meanwhile, you might be able to get a council tax rebate if you’re in the wrong band.
One woman previously exclusively revealed to The Sun how challenging her band managed to save her hundreds of pounds.
You can challenge your band by getting in touch with the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) in England and Wales.
If you live in Scotland you’ll have to contact the Scottish Assessors Association (SAA).
You need to gather evidence showing you’re paying more. This might be having addresses of similar properties to yours in a lower band.
If the VOA agrees that your property is in the wrong band, it will get in touch to let you know your band will be changed.
Bear in mind, it can take up to two months for the VOA to review your case, and also you might challenge your band and end up having to pay more.
If you disagree with the VOA’s ruling, you can appeal your case – but only if you’ve been told that you can when you get the decision.
You must appeal within three months of your decision – to do this, get in touch with the Valuation Tribunal Service.
If the Valuation Tribunal agrees with you, it will get the VOA to change your band – and your bill will change.
Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing money-sm@news.co.uk
