We operate a proactive approach to ensure that empty homes do not remain empty unnecessarily and fall into misuse and dereliction.
If you have a property which is empty, you may receive a letter. It is important you respond to this letter by completing the form to confirm the current status so we can update our Council Tax records.
Complete the empty homes review form on NEC
Alternatively you can call via the dedicated line 01372 435133 or via post to Empty Property Review, PO Box 152, Twickenham TW2 6XZ.
To encourage owners of empty homes to bring their properties back into use, we have powers to increase the empty homes premium thresholds and reduce or remove discounts on Council Tax bills for homes left empty after 1 year.
Empty and unfurnished properties
There is no discount after a property becomes both unoccupied and substantially unfurnished and the full rate of Council Tax will be charged. You still need to inform us if your property becomes empty, unfurnished or unoccupied.
Complete the change of address form on My Account
Long term empty properties
With effect from 1 April 2019, where a property remains unoccupied and substantially unfurnished for more than 2 years and is not otherwise exempt or prohibited, a premium of 100% of the bill will be added.
With effect from 1 April 2020, where a property remains unoccupied and substantially unfurnished for more than 5 years and is not otherwise exempt or prohibited, a premium of 200% of the bill will be added.
With effect from 1 April 2021, where a property remains unoccupied and substantially unfurnished for more than 10 years and is not otherwise exempt or prohibited, a premium of 300% of the bill will be added.
Financial help may be available for owners of empty homes to bring the home back into use, see grants, loans and schemes for empty homes.
Furnished properties that are not a main home (second homes)
There is no discount for a property that is furnished but not a main home and until 31 March 2025 the full rate of Council Tax will be charged. You still need to inform us if your property is not a main home.
With effect from 1 April 2025, where a property is furnished but is not a main home a premium of 100% of the bill will be added.
Uninhabitable properties
There is no discount available for properties that are uninhabitable. In some circumstances if works to the property are substantial, the banding may be affected. You will need to appeal to the Valuation Office Agency directly and council tax payments will be required until a decision is made.
Please see Valuation Office Agency: Council Tax: domestic properties which are in disrepair or are derelict.