On April 1st 2013 the Government introduced a new premium for properties which have been unoccupied and unfurnished for a period of 24 months or more. The new charge introduced a 50 per cent premium on top of the usual Council Tax, this means that since 1st April 2013 these properties have their Council Tax set at 150 per cent of the normal rate for their band. From 1st April 2019, the premium has increased to 100 per cent on top of the usual Council Tax.
The charge was introduced to tackle the problems caused by long term empty homes, such as vandalism, squatting and increases in local crime. The charge is also designed to get more properties back into use.
The premium is not payable in respect of properties which are empty because they are an annexe or where the occupier is away on Ministry of Defence duties.
If you have any questions, comments or views about these charges please contact the Council Tax office.
Last updated: Thursday, 2 July 2020 3:19 pm