THE deadline for flood victims to apply for council tax refunds has been extended for a month.

Taxpayers affected by the floods on Sunday, July 20, can now claim until Sunday, November 30.

Colin Riley, leader of Castle Point Council, requested the extension.

He said: “The scrutiny committee is still undertaking a review with the various responsible agencies into this distressing event and continues to receive evidence from residents affected by severe flooding “It is only right to extend the claim period for another month, so the scrutiny committee can reach a conclusion and issue its report on this matter.

“I hope all those entitled will claim this discount in order to provide the evidence needed by the borough.”

The discount is available to properties that have either remained occupied, have been left empty as a result of flooding or were empty prior to being flooded.

The support is limited to the impact of the severe weather flooding on July 20 only, but a discount of 25 per cent of the net annual council tax charge for 2014/15 on the property as of that day will be calculated.

A total of 260 applications for flood relief have so far been received.

Applications must be made in writing. Further details of the scheme and application form are available at castlepoint.gov.uk The qualifying criteria are for flood water to have entered the internal living area of the property, such as the kitchen, bathroom, lounge, bedroom or hallway The extent of flooding needs to have been more than minimal, affecting a substantial part of the floor surface area within the affected rooms.

Access to the property must have been severely restricted for more than three days as a result of flooding or loss of amenities, such as sewage, drainage and electricity, being severely affected.