Court summons for non-payment
We can ask the court to make a Liability Order if you owe Council Tax. This allows us to take recovery action to collect the full amount of money you owe plus costs of up to £95.
This will increase the amount of money you owe to us!
You can go to the court and give your reasons for not paying, but you're not required to do so and in most cases, we can deal with any enquiries before the date of the court hearing.
The court will make a Liability Order unless you have a valid defence.
Before the court hearing you can do the following:
- check whether you can save money on your Council Tax bill
- make a payment arrangement
- make an enquiry if you have any questions about your account
- make a payment
We’ll try to come to an arrangement for you to repay the money you owe; but we can’t do so unless you contact us.
Alternatively, you can contact Step Change or Citizens Advice for free advice if you’re having difficulty managing your debts.
Following the court hearing, if you don't pay in full or make an arrangement to pay, we'll take further action against you to recover the debt.
To discuss your arrears, contact the Council Tax recovery team or call 0207 525 0375 (find out about call charges) between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.
Virtual Hearings
Southwark Council liability order hearings for Council Tax will now take place at the Council offices via a video link. You must not attend Croydon Magistrates Court.
Page last updated: 26 July 2023
