## Coalition urges government for a national empty homes strategy

A coalition of 25 housing bodies, including prominent charities and investors, has written to Housing Minister Matthew Pennycook calling for a national plan to address the issue of over 300,000 empty homes in England. The alliance, convened by social impact fund manager Resonance, includes organisations such as Shelter, Big Issue, Refuge, Women’s Aid, and The Empty Homes Network.

The coalition describes the government’s current approach as a “missed opportunity” to meet housing demand. They argue that refurbishing the 309,000 long-term empty dwellings recorded in England would increase housing supply more rapidly than relying solely on new developments.

## Addressing housing shortages through refurbishment

Adam Cliff, secretary of the Empty Homes Network, highlighted the urgency of the issue: “With over 300,000 homes sitting stagnant while thousands of families remain trapped in unsuitable temporary accommodation, we are overlooking a ready-made solution to the housing crisis.” He emphasised the need for government support to empower local councils with funding and authority to convert these empty properties into homes for local people.

Daniel Brewer, chief executive of Resonance, added: “The quickest and most sustainable way to house those in need is to unlock the potential of the buildings we already have.” He explained that a National Empty Homes Strategy would facilitate social investment in local communities, reduce risks associated with refurbishing empty properties, and create social housing at a fraction of the cost and carbon footprint of new builds.

## Cost-effective and sustainable housing supply

The coalition stresses that bringing empty homes back into use is one of the most cost-efficient methods to increase housing availability. This approach aligns with government targets to build 1.5 million new homes, providing a complementary route to new construction.

Furthermore, the refurbished homes could support vulnerable groups, including those facing homelessness and survivors of domestic abuse. The process of refurbishment would also generate employment opportunities and contribute to environmental benefits by reducing the need for new construction.

## Proposed measures to support councils and buyers

To enable this strategy, the coalition calls for a funded statutory duty for local councils to investigate complaints about empty homes and intervene when necessary. They propose a national loan scheme to assist funding and suggest that council tax premiums on empty properties could be ringfenced specifically for housing delivery.

Additionally, the coalition recommends stamp duty incentives for buyers who convert empty homes into social housing or supported accommodation. These measures aim to alleviate the rising costs of temporary accommodation currently faced by councils.

## What this means for landlords and agents

For landlords and letting agents, a national empty homes strategy could increase the availability of refurbished properties entering the rental market, potentially easing pressure on housing supply. Councils with enhanced powers and funding may also more actively enforce standards and bring empty properties back into use, which could affect local rental dynamics.

Landlords involved in refurbishment or social housing provision might benefit from government-backed incentives and increased social investment flowing into local communities. The focus on sustainability and cost-efficiency may also influence future housing policies and funding priorities.

Suggested internal link anchors
– empty homes
– housing supply
– social housing
– local councils
– housing refurbishment
– temporary accommodation
– housing demand
– council tax premium
– stamp duty incentives
– housing crisis
– vulnerable households
– housing investment

TLA update
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