Council Tax rates on unoccupied properties

Following this week’s Budget, extra powers are to be given to local councils to charge 100% council tax rates during times when a property is left vacant. This is designed to encourage properties to be occupied and to enable councils to maximise revenue.

Since April 2013 local authorities have been able to charge 50 percent extra in council tax for these home owners. The new powers mean second home owners who leave properties empty could see their council tax double.

The surcharge will apply to properties which have been unoccupied and unfurnished for two years or longer. Some exemptions apply, for example for properties that have been put up for sale, where a property is an annex to another property, or for those belonging to members of the armed forces.

For more information and expert advice on buying, selling or renting your home, contact one of our conveyancing experts in Halifax, Huddersfield or Brighouse.