Remortgage question

Almost certainly, yes. But sometimes you can get introductory rates (not usually fixed, though) which have no early repayment charges. Or you could just get a normal variable rate mortgage with no special rates and which will not have any ERCs.

Depends what you want, really.

Rob Graham

Thank you. Abbey nat are also screwing me on insurance. Can I change insurance provider at any time? I ask because I often see offers from other companies that ask when the current policy expires.

Arthur

Yes you can, but Abbey or most lenders might charge you say 30 one-off for the administration of taking your new insurance policy on board.

Rob

Check the home improvements don't put up your council tax bill...

They won't. The council tax band only rises when you sell.

oh?

Ah yes, the revaluation this year. I forgot about that. Just do the improvements after your revaluation is done and there won't be any extra council tax to pay (till you sell or the next revaluation).

"Previously, improvements only affected tax bands when the property was sold. "

That's separate to the revaluation they're doing?

And tbh if they're going to do this then it is easy enough - anything requiring bco inspection or planning approval will qualify...

No, it *is* the revaluation they're doing. Houses are not revalued for council tax purposes after improvements are made until the house is sold normally - however they are currently revaluing *all* houses, so improvements could move your house into a higher band.

Ah. I suspect they'll make it so they can increase your council tax whenever they like. I don't see how people will pay less (as some surely must as they claim this isn't a revenue increasing scheme)