Empty Properties and Second Homes
Empty properties include properties which are left unoccupied and are either furnished or unfurnished.
Premiums – a premium applies to properties which have been unoccupied and unfurnished for a period of 1 year or more. This will apply to all unoccupied property, a place where no one lives, including those that have previously been classed as ‘uninhabitable’ that received a relevant discount or exemption.
The level of premium will be:
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100% if unoccupied for 1 or more years
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200% if unoccupied for 5 or more years
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300% if unoccupied for 10 or more years
The premium will be charged in addition to the council tax that would otherwise be due. Any period of occupancy that does not exceed 6 weeks will be disregarded when considering whether the property has been vacant for two years or more.
This additional charge will be presented on the front of the Council Tax bill, if it is applicable.
Discounts - The person liable to pay the council tax will pay the full charge where a property is unoccupied and furnished. From 1 April 2019 there will be no 1 month discount for properties which are unoccupied and unfurnished.
Discount for Major Repair Works or Structural Alterations - Properties that require major repair works to render them habitable or are undergoing structural alteration may be eligible to a 100% discount for a maximum period of up to one year. The discount can only be considered if the property is unoccupied and unfurnished. Subject to the one year maximum the discount can continue once the works have been completed for up to 6 months provided the property remains empty. If you would like to apply for the discount please complete the uninhabitable application form.
Exemptions - Sometimes an exemption can apply to vacant/unoccupied properties. Exemptions can apply for an indefinite period until someone else moves in, or for a limited time.