VAT the F***?! report launch

Join us to celebrate the launch of our newly commissioned report "Is VAT Incentivising Housing Demolition? A literature review" by researcher Jules Moscovici

Did you know that:

• 50,000 buildings are demolished each year in the UK.
• The built environment represents up to 40% of the UK’s total emissions.
• At least around a hundred estates are threatened with demolition.

By looking at publications over the past 20 years, we have found that:

Newly built housing is zero rated (0% VAT).

Refurbishing housing which is occupied/recently occupied is (mostly) liable for 20% VAT.

The tax system around construction is complex and there are many exemptions.

Overall, the literature shows that the tax regime is incentivising developers to demolish housing rather than renovate it. This has negative consequences for the environment, carbon emissions, and of course, communities.

Speakers TBC. Time for discussion. Drinks and snacks provided.

Venue: Marchmont Community Centre, 62 Marchmont Street Bloomsbury London WC1N 1AB

Nearest tube: Russel Square

7pm arrival for a 7.30pm start.

This event is hosted by PILC's Gentrification team and for all those interested in the environment and housing!