A MAN was arrested after trading standards raided a Bury tax consultant's office.

Monday’s operation at Dalton and Dalton in Brierley Street was carried out following complaints of fraud by false representation made against the company which related to obtaining council tax refunds.

Trading standards advises consumers that it is free of charge to request a re-banding of their property for the purpose of assessing council tax and they should contact the Valuation Office.

In a statement, Dalton and Dalton said it denied all allegations and will be helping the authorities with their inquiries openly and transparently.

They added: “We charge a £165 sign-up fee for the service as a one-off payment which pays for the application to the Valuation Office Agency (VOA) and any subsequent appeal and tribunal work.

“Consumers can request a re-banding free of charge and can go through the VOA, which we fully advise customers of.”

Dalton and Dalton said its service was set up because many homes are in the incorrect band.

The statement continued: “A lot of people are unaware of their entitlement to a council tax rebate.

“The council does not actively promote the service as rebates are ultimately paid from the council’s funds.

"As we are advising taxpayers of their rights and entitlements, we feel that we are subjected to ill-treatment from the authorities.

“If the VOA does not agree with our findings, we can take the matter to an Independent Valuation Tribunal.”

The visit to the firm by Trading Standards was assisted by colleagues from Cheshire West and Chester, Bury, and Stockport Trading Standards, and officers from Greater Manchester Police.