Flats to rent in Brixton & SW2 and Houses to rent in Brixton & SW2

Brixton is perhaps the coolest place in South London to live, and certainly one of the most famous. Its former tough image has long since become a historical curio rather than a present problem - but although Brixton has become trendy and a place to live for both young professionals and young families, it hasn't lost its gritty feel.

This is however merely a feel - the overriding sense one gets in Brixton now is one of acceptance, embracing, of its multicultural and colourful mix of peoples. The facilities of Brixton reflect its cool, with the emphasis being on great ethnic dining, trendy bars and nightclubs.

But away from the centre of Brixton - the junctions of Brixton Road, Acre Lane and Coldharbour Lane - the area becomes much quieter, much more relaxed and easier. This is an easy place to live, no matter how vibrant it is - because although it can be raucous in the centre of Brixton it's a very localised, controlled energy.

The long history of Brixton as a developed area has resulted in it having a good range of properties to choose from. Of course the mainstay is the Victorian property, although these tend to the large, with both two and three storey houses available, as well as larger Victorian houses towards Brockwell. In the upmarket Trinity Square area, there are even some excellent Georgian terraced properties. At the lower end of the market are houses and flats near the area's council properties. Most are well maintained and the upmarket, trendy young couples and families who live here are keen to keep their homes well decorated.

Hugely energetic, a haven for nightlife and ethnic dining, Brixton is also a fantastic place to make your home.

Brixton is in the Borough of Lambeth which holds the responsibility for delivering services in your area.
For specific information on this borough, or to contact individual departments please click here to visit their website.

Borough of Lambeth website: Borough of Lambeth

In General:
The London boroughs are administrative centres responsible for collecting local taxes (Council Tax and Business Rates) and then spending the funds received on local services. They are run by Borough Councils who are elected by borough residents on a four year cycle. The totals that they spend will depend on the rates of tax that they levy plus funds allocated from central government and other sources.

While many of the services (schools, roads, planning, rubbish collection and social services) are standard, levels of provision will vary according to the overall political will as expressed by the voters.

Your tax liability (as a resident) will be based on the council tax band of your home. These bands are set by Valuation Officers and there is scope for appeal. The rate bands are then used to determine the amounts of tax levied. So, while the bands will remain largely constant the levels of tax can go up and, in theory, down.

You may claim discounts or exemptions based on your circumstances. For example, as the only adult in a property you can get a 25% reduction on your bill. Other reductions are available for qualifying second adults and Council Tax Benefit claimants.

There is more information available at the HM Customs & Excise website.

Borough of Lambeth Council Tax