Over 300,000 homes in the UK have remained empty for more than six months, highlighting a significant challenge in addressing the country’s housing shortage. Propertymark, a leading industry body, has urged the government and local councils to adopt more effective strategies beyond financial penalties to tackle this issue.

Financial penalties are not a complete solution

Propertymark has published a policy paper outlining practical measures to bring empty properties back into use. The organisation warns that financial penalties, including council tax premiums such as the 100% surcharge applied to long-term empty homes in Brighton and Hove, are a blunt tool. Rather than encouraging owners to return properties to the market, these penalties may deter investment and prolong vacancy.

Timothy Douglas, head of policy and campaigns at Propertymark, emphasised the scale and impact of the problem: “Long-term empty properties are a visible reminder of a system that is not working as effectively as it should. At a time when housing demand continues to outstrip supply, leaving hundreds of thousands of homes unused is neither economically nor socially sustainable.”

Douglas further explained that while governments across the UK have introduced various measures, many local authorities lack the necessary resources, funding, and strategic frameworks to effect meaningful change. “Financial penalties alone will not solve the problem,” he said. Instead, he advocates for sustained local engagement, professional advice, and properly funded empty homes teams to support owners through the process of bringing properties back into use.

Recommendations for effective action

Propertymark’s policy paper recommends a collaborative approach between government, councils, and the third sector to better understand why homes become empty. This approach would involve engaging local communities, utilising data and intelligence, and identifying tailored local solutions.

The organisation also suggests that every local authority should appoint a dedicated officer responsible for tackling empty properties. This role would be supported by a clear strategy and adequate revenue and capital budgets to implement effective plans.

Rather than relying solely on punitive measures, Propertymark advocates providing owners with financial support and practical advice. Additionally, the paper calls for a targeted government investment programme focused on areas with high concentrations of long-term empty homes. Such measures aim to unlock wasted housing stock, revitalise high streets and neighbourhoods, and provide much-needed homes for communities across the country.

What this means for landlords

For landlords, the emphasis on support rather than punishment could create a more constructive environment for returning empty properties to the market. Access to professional advice and potential financial assistance may ease the burden of bringing properties back into use, particularly for those facing challenges such as renovation costs or legal complexities.

Local authorities with dedicated empty homes officers and clear strategies could also offer more consistent and effective support, helping landlords navigate the process more efficiently. This collaborative approach may ultimately benefit landlords by reducing the risks and costs associated with long-term vacancies.

Source: Based on reporting from Property118

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