Empty Properties
We want our residents to feel proud of their homes and the neighbourhood, and this is difficult if there are neglected houses nearby. Empty homes affect our communities by -
- attracting anti-social behaviour, arson and fly tipping
- causing stress and anxiety to neighbours
- spoiling the environment for nearby residents
- damaging our city's reputation
- devaluing nearby homes
- means fewer homes are available for people who need them
We want owners to bring their properties back into use. If this is the case and you are struggling, you can contact us at housing.standards@hullcc.gov.uk for support.
We understand the negative effect that empty properties can have on the area, and we monitor the number of empty properties in Hull.
The Empty Homes Property Plan
Our Empty Homes Plan describes how we will reduce the number of long-term empty properties in Hull. There are over 3500 Empty Homes, with nearly 2000 having been empty for over 6 months. A key aspect of the plan is to obtain more accurate information on empty homes so that we can better target our efforts and make informed decisions.
The Plan sets our targets for bringing empty homes back into use and the measures we will use to do so. We will -
- improve our data
- be writing to owners of empty properties to provide advice on the help we can offer
- involve communities and encourage the reporting of empty homes
- work with community organisations to pool resources and ideas
- match potential buyers and tenants with owners
- establish a clear and consistent approach to enforcement action
Properties that are unfurnished and have been empty for one year are classed as 'Long Term Empty' and will be charged an additional 100% long-term empty property premium. At 5 years, this increases to 200%, and at 10 years, 300%.