It seems as though becoming more energy efficient at home and doing one’s bit for climate change is likely to increase UK householder’s tax liabilities. The government’s Valuation Office has confirmed that, in future, home improvements may push properties into a higher council tax band!
At the most important time in Earth's history, this is no way to encourage people to be more energy efficient and eco-friendly. The government should be thoroughly encouraging home improvements, especially those which favour energy conservation and contribute towards controlling global warming.
At the moment, just about the only efficiency measure that helps reduce CO2 emissions and consequently qualifies for a tax concession is home insulation. It’s exempt from VAT.
The government should be looking at and creating special tax incentives across the board spectrum of home improvements so that homeowners will reap the financial as well as the running cost saving and energy efficiency benefits of making their homes greener.
Even gas condensing boilers – the most efficient means around to generate domestic heat and hot water – are subject to VAT.
Come on Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer it hs to be better to sacrifice a few billion pounds on reducing or totally eliminating VAT on effective energy saving measures, in favour of a healthier, more eco-friendly environment that will help our planet survive and prosper.
After all, Mr Chancellor, you know that what you lose to the climate change merrigoround you are bound to make up for on the swingingboats of fiscal manipulation.
