Does a Conservatory Increase Council Tax?

Will the installation of a new conservatory affect council tax?

Adding a conservatory to your home is an attractive and practical way of extending the living space within your home. But will the installation of a new conservatory affect your council tax? It can be a confusing area, so here we look at some of the main questions that people have when it comes to ensuring they stay on the right side of local property tax regulations.

Most of the time, the installation of a conservatory should not affect your council tax at all. Even though it may add to the value of your property, it is typically not considered an extra ‘room’ in terms of the valuation calculations for council tax purposes. When installing a conservatory, you’ll likely need to check with your local planning department to determine if any additional permission is needed, but this shouldn’t affect your current council tax band. 

Do you have to pay council tax during your conservatory installation?

In most cases, no. During the construction process itself, you won’t be charged any additional council tax. However, if the building works result in your property becoming ‘materially different’, then you are required to inform your local authority and your property may be subject to a revaluation and a change in council tax band. However, this is highly unlikely due to the nature of conservatory building works. 

Which conservatory renovations will increase your council tax?

If you’re planning on renovating your conservatory, there may be times when you will need to inform your local authority and potentially be subject to a revaluation if your property has been materially altered. This could be the case for more extensive renovations, such as converting a conservatory into a habitable room by adding things like heating or insulation. However, if the renovation constitutes basic maintenance or repair to the existing conservatory then it is unlikely that any additional council tax will be applied.

If eligible how do I apply for a council tax discount?

If you’ve just installed a conservatory and believe that it should be eligible for a council tax discount, then you need to speak to your local authority. They will be able to confirm whether or not the installation of the conservatory qualifies you for a reduction in your local tax payments. Note that you cannot apply retrospectively for a council tax discount; it’s important to contact your local authority before the installation begins. 

What types of renovations affect your council tax?

Renovations that affect your council tax can include any changes that might increase the property's value or make it more attractive to potential buyers. Installing a kitchen, getting planning permission for a loft conversion, or replacing a garage with a bathroom are all examples of renovations that might affect your council tax. However, when it comes to basic repairs or improvements to your conservatory, these are unlikely to change your tax band.