Thurrock Council has issued a warning about spurious callers claiming to be able to help residents get council tax refunds.

The council said they had been made aware of residents being called by an unsolicited company who offers to do ‘checks’ for a £65 fee.

Callers have been claiming that they can help people who may be entitled to get a refund on their council tax.

For the fee, the company offers to check if properties have been correctly banded.

If not, the company have been telling people they may be entitled to a refund.

Portfolio Holder for Central Services and Finance, Councillor Shane Hebb said he was ‘dismayed’ Thurrock residents are being targeted.

Speaking on Friday September 9, he said: “Thankfully, we’ve been made aware because residents who have had the phone call offering the service have called us direct to check.

“However, it does make you wonder how many might have fallen for it.

“The most irritating part of this deal is all of the services the company is offering to provide are accessible, easy and free for anybody to do.

“It is similar to the PPI ‘offer’ where companies can claim what is rightfully yours but take a large percentage as compensation.

“Whilst it’s not illegal, but there is lots of support and help available online if you wanted to do it yourself.”

If a resident feels their property has been banded incorrectly, they can appeal to the Valuation Office Agency who is responsible for setting the bands.

He added: “Please tell your family, friends and neighbours – and help spread the message.”

Residents who wish to check the banding on their property is correct can visit http://app.voa.gov.uk/council_tax/appeal_forms/ct-proposal-form.pdf