Caravanners 'need not pay council tax'

At least 250 residents will be refunded and protected from paying council tax in Gloucestershire, after flooding forced them into caravans last year.

Floods recovery minister John Healey announced plans to ensure that the residents forced out of their homes into motor homes will be exempt from paying council tax for the duration they spend out of their homes.

"Everyone is pulling out all the stops to get people back into their homes, said Mr Healey.

"A quarter of those out in June were back home in July with the numbers of those living in caravans halved in the same period…But for those worst hit it will take more time. I don't want them paying council tax for homes they can't live in."

So far the councils affected will need £1 million to refund the loss they will suffer as a result of the council tax exemption, but it is for a noble cause.

However, those currently living in motor homes must treat their temporary home as any other house they have bought, and so motor home insurance must be incorporated into their finances.

Without caravan insurance, residents are putting themselves at risk once more.

04/08/2008 16:40:02