Empty homes

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.

Empty Homes Grant Scheme

We are offering grants of up to £15,000 for repairs to make empty properties habitable. 

The property must then be made available to rent to households at risk of homelessness for a minimum of five years, with rents set at the Local Housing Allowance rate plus 10%. 

Please contact our Empty Homes Officer for more information.