I am looking for advice on council tax. I have purchased a property two years ago (from auction) that had been derelict for many years and had been subject to vandalism and neglect. It requires a major refurbishment as there are trees growing into the house, windows are all rotten, new joists and floors throughout are required, decorating throughout is needed, sewage pipes are damaged and need to be replaced. There is no working toilet, no bathroom and kitchens windows all needed replacing. To my knowledge, I would expect this property to be classed as uninhabitable, yet the valuation office thinks not. Can I get help with appealing this decision?

Arthur Weller replies:
It is possible to appeal against a council tax ruling. Appeals are made initially to the local valuation office. The taxpayer then has the option of referring the case to a valuation tribunal after the valuation office has reviewed the case. Guidance can be seen at www.gov.uk/counciltax-appeals and/or www.voa.gov.uk/council_tax.