my 2nd lnd blog post

Major changes to crackdown on long-term empty homes fast approaching...

Homeowners now have clarity

Ian Perks Estate Agent

Starting from 1 April 2024, there will be stricter rules in place to double council tax on long-term empty properties. This is aimed at freeing

up more existing housing stock. Instead of the current two years, the rules will now apply when a property has been empty for 12 months. Additionally, councils will have the power to introduce a tax premium on second homes in their area from next year, which will bring in more funds for public services or help keep overall council tax bills down.

After a public consultation, the Department for Levelling Up has confirmed a few exceptions to ensure fairness for homeowners. These exceptions include uninhabitable properties undergoing extensive renovation, second homes with planning restrictions that cannot be used year-round, and homes inherited by grieving families for up to a year.

Homeowners now have clarity on the changes and can plan accordingly, while councils can budget for increased funds to spend on public services.

Simon Hoare, the minister for local government, stated that long-term empty properties are preventing local families and young people from accessing the housing market in their own community. As part of the government's long-term plan for housing, action is being taken to deliver more suitable homes in the right locations and give councils more authority to provide local people with the homes they need.

These changes are part of the government's goal to deliver one million homes this Parliament, supported by a £10 billion investment, and will help unlock more of the homes needed in the country.