Home improvement tax check ''will cost £1bn''

DIY enthusiasts could find their council tax bills hiked further this year as a result of carrying out improvements to their homes.

The government is planning to carry out an assessment of the country''s 24 million homes in order to identify improvements that could justify a rise in council tax.

These improvements would include things such as the fitting of new kitchens or bathrooms, the installation of double-glazing and the building of conservatories or extensions.

Critics say the move will come as an unnecessary penalty for thousands of homeowners who have worked hard to afford nice homes for their families.

Shadow housing minister Caroline Spelman said: "This Labour tax grab on family homes punishes those who have worked hard and saved."

Homeowners planning to carry out improvements on their property should to find out what kind of impact any structural changes would have on their tax bills before going ahead.

They should also make sure they check building regulations to make sure that the improvements they have planned comply with the law.


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