New Strategy Targets Long-Term Empty Properties in Pembrokeshire

Pembrokeshire County Council has formally adopted its Empty Properties Strategic Plan for 2025–30, which introduces measures to address the issue of long-term empty homes within the county. The plan includes provisions that could compel owners to sell properties that have remained unoccupied for over 12 months, but it explicitly excludes second homes from its scope. This initiative reflects the council’s commitment to tackling the waste of valuable housing stock and the negative impact empty properties can have on local communities.

Empty Properties Considered a Valuable Resource Wasted

In a detailed council report, empty properties are described as a “waste of a valuable resource” that could otherwise contribute to the county’s housing supply. The report highlights the problems associated with long-term empty homes, including their susceptibility to antisocial behaviour such as trespass, vandalism, and arson. Additionally, these properties often become eyesores that reduce the value of neighbouring homes and can harbour vermin infestations. The council also notes the strain empty properties place on local services, including the police and fire and rescue teams.

Second Homes Excluded from Enforcement Measures

Pembrokeshire Council has clarified that the Empty Properties Strategic Plan will not apply to second homes. A council spokesperson explained that the plan’s focus is on private residential properties that have been empty for more than 12 months with no usual residents, and which are not used as second or short-term homes. Since second homes fall under a different council tax classification, they are categorised separately and are not subject to the enforcement powers outlined in the plan.

Enforcement Powers Reserved for Exceptional Cases

During the council meeting, Cllr Jacob Williams emphasised that any enforcement action would be considered on a case-by-case basis and would affect only a small number of properties. The council spokesperson further explained that the plan prioritises working collaboratively with property owners through advice, guidance, and support to bring empty homes back into use. Only in rare and exceptional circumstances—where properties cause nuisance or detriment to the area, owners cannot be traced, and debts have accrued due to necessary works—would the council consider enforcing a sale.

Implications for Landlords and Agents

For landlords and letting agents, this plan signals increased scrutiny on long-term empty properties in Pembrokeshire. While second homes remain unaffected, owners of privately rented or investment properties left empty for over a year may face pressure to either return them to use or risk enforced sale in exceptional cases. The council’s emphasis on engagement and support suggests that owners should proactively seek advice and assistance to avoid enforcement measures. This approach aims to increase housing availability while mitigating the negative community impacts of empty properties.

Plan Implementation and Next Steps

The Empty Properties Strategic Plan will come into effect once the council’s call-in period has passed. Pembrokeshire Council’s adoption of this plan reflects a growing trend among local authorities to address housing shortages and community concerns related to empty homes. Landlords and agents operating in the area should monitor developments and consider how this policy might influence property management strategies moving forward.

Suggested internal link anchors

• empty homes enforcement
• long-term empty properties
• second homes policy
• housing supply in Pembrokeshire
• antisocial behaviour and property management
• council tax classifications
• property enforcement powers
• landlord obligations
• property management support
• local authority housing strategies

TLA update

TLA is launching a new Trusted Partners Hub in Q1 2026, featuring verified and approved service providers selected to support landlords, tenants, and property management businesses. We are inviting legal, trades, insurance, financial, mortgage, tenant screening, and other service providers to register their interest here: https://landlordassociation.org.uk/become-a-tla-service-partner/