When it comes to council tax, one of the most common questions is whether you need to pay it on an empty property.
The answer is not straightforward, as it depends on various factors such as the location, the reason for the property being empty, and the specific council’s policies. In this article, we will go into the details and provide you with a comprehensive guide on council tax for empty properties.
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Council Tax on Empty Properties: The Basics
When a property stands empty, you’re usually still on the hook for council tax. This applies whether the property is furnished or unfurnished. The full council tax charge typically kicks in from day one of the property being empty.However, some councils offer a brief grace period. For example, you might get a month free of council tax when a property first becomes empty and unfurnished. But this isnt guaranteed – its up to each individual council.
What is long term empty property premium?
Property sitting empty for over 2 years will attract an empty property premium. This can be anything from 50% to 100% on top of your normal council tax rate liability.
It is best to consult your council and let them know your plans to sell or rent the property.
If your property stays empty for a long time, you could end up paying even more council tax. Many councils charge an “empty homes premium” on properties left vacant for extended periods. Here’s how it often works:
- Empty for 1-2 years: 100% premium (double council tax)
- Empty for 2-5 years: 200% premium (triple council tax)
- Empty for 5-10 years: 300% premium (quadruple council tax)
- Empty for 10+ years: 400% premium (five times normal council tax)
These premiums are meant to encourage owners to bring empty homes back into use. The exact rules and timeframes can vary between councils, so its worth checking with your local authority.
Exemptions from Council Tax on Empty Properties
In some situations, you might not have to pay council tax on an empty property. Common exemptions include:
- Properties left empty by someone whos gone into care
- Properties empty due to the owner being in prison
- Properties that cant be lived in by law (e.g. condemned buildings)
- Properties left empty by someone who has died (usually exempt for 6 months after probate).
If you’re not sure whether your empty property qualifies for an exemption, get in touch with your local council.
Do you pay council tax on an empty property when someone dies?
Properties left empty after someone has died are exempt from the Council Tax until a Grant of Probate has been issued. Some councils give you an additional six months after Probate is granted if a property isn’t sold, let, or someone else is moving in.
Bungalows left to beneficiaries can be difficult to sell if they are in a rural location, need modernisation or the demand for bungalows has diminished.
Do You Pay Council Tax on an Empty Property?
Yes almost certainty you should expect to pay council tax. However, there are other factors such as:
- Location: Council tax policies vary by location. Some councils offer exemptions or discounts for empty properties, while others charge a premium. For example, in Birmingham, an empty property is liable for council tax if it remains empty for over a year.
- Reason for Emptiness: If the property is empty due to renovation or refurbishment, some councils may offer a temporary exemption or discount. However, if the property is empty due to the owner’s choice or neglect, the council may charge a higher rate.
- Duration of Emptiness: The length of time the property remains empty also plays a role. Some councils offer a limited period of exemption, typically up to six months, before charging full council tax or a premium.
Tips for Managing Council Tax on Empty Properties
- Don’t assume you’ll get a discount just because the property is empty. Many councils no longer offer this.
- If you’re renovating, some councils offer discounts for properties undergoing major repairs. Ask about this.
- Consider letting the property, even short-term. This can shift council tax responsibility to tenants.
- If selling, try to time completion close to when the property becomes empty to minimise your liability.
- Keep records of when the property became empty and any efforts to sell or let it.
Second Homes & Council Tax
Its worth noting that second homes – properties that are furnished but not anyone’s main residence – are treated differently. You’ll usually pay full council tax on these, but some councils offer a small discount.From April 2025, councils in England will be able to charge up to double council tax on second homes. This is part of efforts to address housing shortages in popular areas.
Getting Help with Empty Property Council Tax
Dealing with council tax on empty properties can be confusing. If you’re struggling to manage an empty property or the associated costs, were here to help. At Property Saviour, we specialise in buying problematic properties quickly for cash.We can often complete a purchase within 10 days, potentially saving you months of council tax payments. Plus, well cover your legal fees up to £1,500.
Whether you’ve inherited an empty property, are struggling with a non-paying tenant, or just want to offload a property that’s costing you money, get in touch. We buy any type of property in any condition across England and Wales.
Do I have to pay council tax on an empty property I’m trying to sell?
Yes, you’ll usually need to pay council tax while trying to sell an empty property. However, if the property was left empty due to the previous owners death, you might get a 6-month exemption after probate is granted. Some councils also offer discounts for properties on the market, but this isnt guaranteed.
How long can a property be empty before paying council tax?
In most cases, you’ll start paying council tax immediately when a property becomes empty. Some councils offer a brief exemption (often around a month) for unfurnished properties that have just become empty. After that, full council tax is usually due, with potential premiums for long-term empty properties.
Can I claim a single person discount on an empty property?
No, single-person discounts are typically only applicable to occupied properties. However, you may be able to claim a discount or exemption for the empty property, depending on the council’s policies.
Can I avoid paying council tax on an empty property?
Its hard to completely avoid council tax on an empty property unless it falls under specific exemptions (like the owner being in care). Your best options are to:
- Bring the property back into use quickly
- Check if your council offers any discounts
- See if you qualify for any exemptions
- Consider selling the property to avoid ongoing costs
If you’re struggling with an empty property, why not chat with us at Property Saviour? We might be able to take it off your hands quickly, saving you from ongoing council tax headaches.
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