Empty properties and second home discounts
From 1 April 2016, we no longer offer discounts for empty homes. If you have a second home you might be entitled to a Council Tax discount. This will depend on what the property is used for.
If your property is empty
From 1 April 2016 there are no longer any discounts available for empty and unfurnished properties. The full charge is payable for empty properties unless they are exempt.
Long term empty properties – Empty Home Premium
From the 1st April 2019 we’ll charge an additional 100% on top of the full Council Tax charge if your property is empty and unfurnished for 2 years or more. This means that you'll have to pay 200% Council Tax.
There are some cases where empty properties are exempt.
If it’s your second home
If your property is furnished and used as a second home or is between lets, you won't be entitled to a discount unless it's job related accommodation.
If it’s job related accommodation
If you have to live in a second property for your job and your main home is elsewhere, you may be able to claim a 50% discount on the property.
Apply for a Council Tax discount for a job related property
We’ll need:
- evidence that you pay Council Tax elsewhere
- evidence that you're required to live in the property for your job (eg contract of employment)
Page last updated: 07 March 2019
