What we are doing to reduce the number of empty properties in Hull
Hull has a large housing need, and bringing empty homes back into use is one way we can increase the amount of housing available to residents. We also understand the potential negative effect that empty properties can have on the area, and we monitor the number of empty properties in Hull.
We encourage owners to bring their properties back into use as much-needed housing in a number of different ways.
Empty properties are classed as being 'Long Term Empty' if they have been empty for longer than 6 months. Properties that are mainly unfurnished and have been empty for one year will be charged an additional 100% long-term empty property premium. For 5 years, this increases to 200%, and 300% for 10 years or more.
Any landlords who have homes that they are struggling to let can contact our Private Sector Access team to enquire about any assistance we may be able to offer with allocating tenants.
We understand that a property may become vacant for a number of reasons. Any owners who have an empty property and would like advice around empty homes or would be interested in selling can contact our Private Housing team.
The Empty Homes Plan
Our Empty Homes Plan will be available soon, and this describes how we will address the issue of long-term empty properties in Hull. There are over 3500 Empty Homes, with nearly 2000 having been empty for over 6 months.
The Plan sets our targets for bringing back empty homes into use and the measures we will be using to do this. We will -
- improve our data and be proactive in 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
- establish a matchmaking service for owners of empty properties with potential buyers
- establish a clear and consistent protocol for enforcement action on empty homes
Empty properties in the private sector
If you are aware of an empty property, you can report it to us.
We investigate empty properties to deal with any nuisance they are causing. This may involve -
- boarding up properties
- clearing away rubbish
- stopping water leaks
After dealing with any urgent issues, we contact the owner. We encourage them to sell the property or renovate it and rent it out.
If a property has been empty for over 6 months and is in need of repair, we may be able to buy the property. Or we may provide help and advice for property owners on bringing their property back into use. We will contact owners of properties empty for over 6 months. This is to record what action is being taken to bring the property back into use.
We also work with landlords to assist with the letting of properties. Find out more about the Private Sector Access Team.
Find out more about open trespass.
Access more information about fly-tipping.
Although we have the power to take control of empty properties, this is a last resort.
Some services may need a property that cannot be found in the available council stock. If you think you have a property that may be of interest to us, email housing.reactive@hullcc.gov.uk.