Flats to rent in Stockwell & SW9 and Houses to rent in Stockwell & SW9

One of the most likeable and liveable of South London's inner city boroughs, Stockwell has been a grower since the beginnings of the current property boom, and is famed for its family friendly feel, great houses and leftfield atmosphere.

Like Brixton, but without the effort, Stockwell has a sort of loose, easy funkiness that doesn't have to prove itself. Before the 19th Century it was mostly a rural area (but then, of course, most of London was) and became a middle class area from the mid 1800s.

Much of Stockwell's 19th Century roots are visible now, despite the fact that there has been extensive building in the last century (mainly around the tube station). This includes one of the best local open spaces, Stockwell Park and its Conservation Area, a lovely city park that provides excellent walks, as well as places like Albert Square. Around Stockwell Park are some excellent Georgian houses - this is the area's most fashionable and sought after location - though it has competition from the lovely Regency villas which are located in the Clapham Road area. There are Georgian houses all over Stockwell in little pockets, in amongst the more staple Victorian family homes which attract people from all over South London.

Though mainly a residential stronghold, Stockwell is perfectly placed for access to other areas. Whilst close to Kennington and Vauxhall and benefiting from their facilities, it's infinitely more liveable for the family and less aggressively urban. It's extremely close to Brixton for markets and nights out, as well as to Clapham and Battersea if you fancy a big injection of shopping. There are great stores in the area itself, of course, little local stores and nearby supermarkets - as well as plenty of places to eat and drink; a standout feature is Stockwell's wonderful number of cafes and restaurants catering to the Portuguese community, which is strongly represented here.

Being close to places like Clapham and Battersea, and even Dulwich, Stockwell is also perfectly positioned for schools, and overall the area has a great family feel. If you want to live in South London but are put off by the prices in places like Clapham or Battersea, Stockwell is a great choice not just for deals, but a cool, friendly place to live.

Stockwell 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