Rates arrears

If you're having difficulty paying your rates contact Land and Property Services (LPS) immediately and explain the situation - the longer you ignore a debt problem, the worse the situation becomes.

You should find out whether you qualify for help, such as Housing Benefit or Rate Relief by contacting LPS as follows:

freephone 0800 5877 477
phone: 0300 200 7801 (calling from abroad it will be 00 44 28 9054 1613)
minicom: 1800 1101
e-mail: housingbenefit.rating@lpsni.gov.uk

You can also click on the following links for more information:

What if you still don't pay?

If you are unable to come to a payment arrangement with LPS or if you make arrangements to pay but don’t, LPS will take you to court. This will mean:

You will have to pay additional costs and
Your credit rating may be affected. (This can result in you not being able to apply for credit or, in some cases being made bankrupt)

You have the right to attend the court and offer evidence as to why you are not liable for the debt. Even if you decide not to attend court, you should speak to LPS or, if you prefer, your local Citizens Advice Bureau. LPS will try to come to a reasonable arrangement with you for payment but they cannot do that unless you contact them.

The consequences of ignoring a Court Order

If the court makes a Order against you, LPS can take enforcement action against you in order to recover the debt. This could mean either deductions from wages or a charge being put against your property