What is an empty home?
An empty home is considered a residential property that is unoccupied as a main residence, and where the owner lives elsewhere. A long-term empty home is classed as a property that has been empty for 6 months or longer.
Why is the council concerned about long-term empty homes?
Empty homes represent a significant and often overlooked opportunity to meet housing need, support community regeneration, and make more effective use of existing housing stock. At a time of growing demand for affordable and decent homes, the presence of long-term vacant properties, often located in areas of high need, can undermine neighbourhood vitality, attract anti-social behaviour, and contribute to urban decline.
What is the council doing to address the issue of empty homes in Huntingdonshire?
We are developing an Empty Homes Strategy that will outline our commitment to tackling empty homes as part of a wider effort to create thriving, resilient communities and ensure that every home counts.
Our aim is to assist and encourage owners to bring their empty homes back into use, without the need to use any of the enforcement powers available to us.
Notify us of an Empty HomeAre you an empty home owner?
Do you have an empty home that you could bring back into use to help with the shortage of affordable homes in Huntingdonshire? We can support you with advice and take steps to bring your property back into use.
What are the benefits of bringing your empty home back into use?
Owning an empty property can be costly. Expenses such as mortgage payments, Council Tax, utility bills, insurance, and ongoing maintenance quickly add up.
By occupying the property, you could:
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earn a regular rental income to cover these costs
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receive a lump sum if you choose to sell
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provide a much-needed home for someone in the district.
Renovation
If your property has been empty for at least two years before renovation work begins, you may be eligible for a reduced VAT rate of 5% on renovation costs. If it has been empty for more than ten years and you plan to live there yourself, you could qualify for a 0% VAT rate.
If we have a record that you have previously informed us that the home is empty and provided dates, we can provide a letter which may assist you in reducing your VAT costs. View details about how to claim a VAT reduction from HMRC.
Planning advice
If you decide to undertake a refurbishment or major works to your property, you may need to get building control approval or planning permission. It can be worthwhile getting advice from the council’s planning team prior to work commencing or prior to submitting a planning application.
Renting your property
If you are interested in renting your property, information can be found by contacting:
Selling your property
If you decide to sell your property, you can use an estate agent, an auction or advertise the property yourself. Our Private Sector Housing Officer (Empty Homes) has a list of investors in the district who are interested in privately purchasing property. A private sale can also reduce the cost of agent and advertising fees.
Please tell us if you are aware of an empty home, and we will arrange for an officer to investigate.
Notify us of an Empty Home