"Our advice? Don't waste your money."
That's the uncompromising message from council tax chiefs who are urging residents not to be taken in by companies that claim they can recoup hundreds of pounds in overpaid council tax.
Senior Council Tax officers at Wigan Council have issued the warning following reports that some residents are handing over a substantial amount of money in 'administration fees' in the hope of being reimbursed any monies owed to them, and of having their property re-valued to a lower council tax band.
One resident from Winstanley recently contacted the council after parting with £175.
"A company approached a resident by phone and made an appointment to visit him at his home," explains Anthony Mohammed, Head of Citizen Support at Wigan Council.
"Apparently, they claimed they could contact Wigan Council on his behalf. But it simply isn’t necessary. If anyone is entitled to a refund, we automatically identify any resident who is entitled and send them a notification. Only then is a refund sent out if this is proved correct
"Not only did this company charge £175 to start the process, they also asked for 25% of any refund gained. It would have to be a pretty large refund in order to justify such high charges. No resident should be taken in by such an approach. Give it the attention it deserves – throw it in the bin."
Greater Manchester Police has also received a number of reports, including one from a woman who fortunately arrived at the home of her 86-year-old mother just in time to stop her handing over money to a representative of one of these companies.
Cllr Chris Ready, the cabinet champion for customer service, adds:
“Sadly, it’s often the most vulnerable residents who get targeted by the more unscrupulous businesses. Whilst not acting illegally, some of these businesses survive by using heavy-handed sales tactics, building false hopes and operating just within the letter of the law.
“Do these companies offer a legitimate service? Well, they charge money for a service which the council already performs for free. This type of business is not wanted in Wigan, nor is it needed."
If you think your property is in the wrong council tax band, please contact the Valuation Office Agency in Manchester on 03000 503 600.
To report incidents of bogus callers, call the Police on the new non-emergency number, 101.
For further advice, contact Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06 (calls charged at local rate)
