Flats to rent in West Ham & E13 , E15 and Houses to rent in West Ham & E13 , E15

Confusingly named like many London boroughs, West Ham is one of the most easterly areas of true London. It's extremely close to Stratford - possibly its closest neighbour - which is great news for homeowners and residents as this part of the city is going seriously up in the world.

West Ham, known mainly for its football team (themselves named the Hammers after their association with the old Thames Ironworks FC), is perfectly placed for the upcoming Olympics, as investment in Stratford leaps forward and brings huge resources, vastly improved transport and the solid expectation of gentrification.

The West Ham area is already being gentrified of course owing to the value of its property and the proximity to the City and Docklands. And whilst the nearby resources of Stratford - with its arts, culture, tertiary education and shopping - are a fabulous resource for locals, the little town has its own bustling centre, and has good local shops and a sprinkling of solid local pubs and eateries.

Houses here are generally in an excellent state and décor and maintenance are hugely improved from a few years ago. This, along with Plaistow, is a region of two and three bedroom houses, mostly terraces and mostly Victorian. These are very popular, particularly those north of West Ham Park, the attractive little open space that sits dead centre of the area. There are excellent little estates, however, of new build houses, developed to take advantage of the growing interest in the area from first time buyers and cash-conscious city workers.

With the resources of Stratford at its elbow and friendly little community, West Ham is set to be one of the next generation of up and comers.

West Ham is in the Borough of Newham 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 Newham website: Borough of Newham

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 Newham Council Tax