Image source, Getty Images
Self-built home improvements are usually exempt from the Community Infrastructure Levy
A council has pledged to refund homeowners who it said were “disgracefully” charged thousands of pounds by “unpleasant and overzealous” officers.
West Berkshire Council previously adopted a “zero-tolerance” approach to incorrect paperwork for home improvements, leader Jeff Brooks said.
Residents who completed council forms wrongly were charged a Community Infrastructure Levy, he added.
He said the practice would be stopped.
Image source, Maria Dobson
Maria Dobson said a council officer posted a sign about her charge outside her home
Typically, they are used to pay for infrastructure such as schools and roads which a housing development might require.
Self-built annexes and home extensions are normally exempt, according to the government.
Maria Dobson, from Kintbury, said she was “bullied” into paying an extra charge of almost £25,000 for work on her house.
She said a council officer posted notices about the fee outside her…
