Empty property premium

The government is changing council tax rules to help tackle the housing crisis and support local communities. By introducing additional charges (premiums), it aims to help councils reduce the number of long-term empty homes in the UK.

These changes are intended to encourage owners of long-term empty homes and second homes to make better use of their properties, or increase housing availability by selling or renting them.

If your home is classed as a second home or long-term empty home, you will also need to pay an additional charge (premium). Depending on the circumstances, this can be up to four times the normal rate of council tax.