There are many reasons that a home may be left empty, including renovations, probate, or the owner living elsewhere. Houses on the market for sale or rent may be empty for a short time. However, leaving properties empty for longer has a negative impact locally. It can encourage anti-social behaviour, attract pests and affect adjoining properties.
At the same time, there are over 2,000 households on the housing register in Erewash who need an affordable home. Bringing empty homes back into use is an important part of solving the shortage of good homes for people. That is why, wherever possible, we want to encourage owners to return these valuable homes to use.
Guidance for owners
If you own an empty property, there is help available:
- Reduced VAT There are a number of tax breaks available for people refurbishing empty homes, converting property from office space to residential accommodation and for flats above shops. For more information, call HM Revenue & Customs National Advice Service on: 0845 010 900, or 0845 9000 444
- Planning Advice If you decide to refurbish or do major works to your property, you may need to get building control approval or planning permission. Before getting started, you may wish to seek advice from the Council’s Planning team. Information on planning guidelines, pre-planning advice and the application process can also be found on the Planning Portal
- Letting your property The following websites have useful information if you are considering letting your home:
NRLA - The Home For Landlords
UK Association of Letting Agents - UKALA
DASH Services - DASH Services
Other options include selling your vacant property by auction, estate agent or privately. You can also find further information at No Use Empty, a website developed by local authorities in Kent.
Enforcement
The Council aims to work constructively with owners of empty homes. However, when empty properties become poorly maintained and cause a detriment to neighbours and communities, the Council’s Private Sector Housing Team has powers to deal with those issues under the Housing Act 2004 and other relevant legislation.
Buying an Empty Home
The Council does not keep a public register of empty homes. If you have seen an empty home that you are interested in buying, you may be able to find out who the owner is by searching the Land Registry.