Empty homes
What do to do if your community is affected by a long term empty property, and information for owners
Long term empty properties can have a negative impact on local communities, for example by:
- reducing property value, including neighbouring properties
- environmental health risks from vermin and waste
- causing a danger the public, if the structure's unsafe
- attracting criminal and anti-social behaviour - for example fly tipping, vandalism and arson. If you witness crime at an empty property, please report it to the police or Crimestoppers
- putting a strain on fire and police services
- wasting resources when so many people need housing
If you own a long term empty property, email our empty property officer at enquiries@rutland.gov.uk for advice on:
- selling or renting
- VAT discounts
- local auctioneers
- financial assistance
- grants to help bring empty properties back to use.
The Council is offering grants of up to £15,000 for repairs to make empty properties habitable. The property then being made available to rent to households at risk of homelessness for a minimum of 5 years, with rents set at the Local Housing Allowance rate plus 10%. Contact our empty property officer for more information.