Empty properties and second homes premium

Extra Council Tax charges for long-term empty and second homes, situations when you do need to pay and how to apply for an exception.

If your property is left empty for up to 1 month, you can apply for an empty property Council Tax discount.

If your property is left empty for up to 1 year, you will need to pay your regular Council Tax instalments.

Long-term empty properties premium

We will add an extra cost to your Council Tax bill if your property is left empty and largely unfurnished for 1 year or more.

If your property has been empty for:

  • more than 1 year, you must pay a 100% premium Council Tax rate – this means you will have to pay 2 times the normal rate
  • more than 5 years, you must pay a 200% premium Council Tax rate – this means you will have to pay 3 times the normal rate
  • more than 10 years, you must pay a 300% premium Council Tax rate – this means you will have to pay 4 times the normal rate

Second homes premium

Second homes are charged a 100% premium. This is 2 times the property's standard Council Tax rate.

Second homes are properties which are furnished but unoccupied – they are no-one’s sole or main residence. This includes furnished unoccupied properties which may be subject to a planning restriction on occupation.

Exceptions for long-term empty homes and second homes

You will need to apply online for an exception and provide us with evidence.

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You may not have to pay the premium if:

  • your empty property is an annexe
  • you’re in the armed forces and you have to move into armed forces accommodation as part of your work
  • your property is being actively marketed for sale or let – a 12 month time limit applies
  • your property is undergoing major repairs or structural alterations – a 12 month time limit applies