5% VAT Relief on empty property

We have bought a house which has been empty for over 2 years. Whilst one contractor has been happy to accept that we meet the criteria for the VAT relief, our main contractors accountant is asking for something in writing from the Council or a certificate which we have so far been unable to provide. I have rung the Council on several occasions and they seem confused as to the request, might anyone have any suggestions?

Hi .
 

Please refer to section 8.3.2 as evidence that is acceptable to HMRC : Buildings and construction (VAT Notice 708)  Thank you .

Hi - I believe you can self-certify using the certificate template 'Zero-rated and reduced-rated building work certificate' to be found in section 18.1 of VAT 708 Notice. Can anyone tell me how to post a new question in this forum?

I have a slightly different question in relation to the application of 5% VAT rate: Can more than one contractor working on the eligible property claim the reduced rate? I am not referring to sub-contractors but a situation where one contractor is employed to build an extension and another separate contractor is employed to stabilise the walls of the original part of the building. Can both contractors claim the reduced rate on their elements of the work, if they have the necessary evidence?

Hi. As long as the criteria is met for work on an empty property as per the folllowing guidance then more than one contractor can charge at the reduced rate of 5% See: Buildings and construction (VAT Notice 708)  . Thank you .