Family annexe

If you have an annexe which is used by you or a family member, you may qualify for a discount or exemption.

An annexe is defined for council tax purposes as a property which:

• Forms part of a single property which includes at least one other dwelling; and
• Is being used by a resident of that other dwelling or, as the case may be, one of those other dwellings, as part of their sole or main residence; or
• Is the sole or main residence of a relative of the person who is liable to pay council tax in respect of that other dwelling or, as the case may be, one of those other dwellings.

Annexes are banded separately from the main property, therefore they have a seperate council tax charge. If the annexe is being used by a relative you can get a discount or exemption.

Your council tax will be reduced by 50% for the annexe if it is:

• Occupied by relatives under the age of 65 or
• Unoccupied as the person living in the main property is using the annexe as part of their main home

You will be exempt if the annexe is:

• Occupied by relatives over the age of 65 or
• Occupied by relatives aged 18 to 65 who are severely mentally impaired or substantially and permanently disabled or
• Unoccupied as it cannot be let separately without breach of planning control under section 171a of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990

To apply for this discount please supply the details required by:

• Email - council.tax@sunderland.gov.uk or;
• Write to - Sunderland City Council, Council Tax Section, City Hall, Plater Way, Sunderland, SR1 3AA
• Phone - by speaking to our Home and Money team.