This suggests, of course, that it will not be administering council tax discounts in accordance with council tax law. For the Audit Commission appears to be actively encouraging maladministration, not least via its own secure web site, which contains a great deal of misleading and inaccurate nonsense.
Havering calls the Section 11 discount an SRD - Single Resident Discount.
The web site does not contain the clear information required to be provided relating to the duties of the taxpayer in receipt of a discount, and nor does it inform the taxpayer clearly of the assumptions on the basis of which the appropriate amount has been deducted from their bill.
The expected nonsense about informing of changes in circumstances may be found in a letter on Havering's web site in PDF format.
Here is an extract:
Dear
Council Tax Discount - Single Resident
I understand that you live at the above address and are liable for Council Tax. If you are the only person, over the age of 18, living at your property, you may be entitled to discount of 25% of the charge.
Before I can reduce your bill, I need to have written confirmation that you live alone. Could you please complete the attached declaration and return it to me, along with this letter in the envelope provided.
It will be necessary for me to review the situation in the future, but you should let me know if your circumstances change in the meantime.
If you need any help or advice, please do not hesitate to contact us on the above direct dial line.
Yours sincerely
