Owners responsible for the more than 8,000 empty homes across Liverpool could face a massive hike in fees if action isn’t taken to fill them.
In a bid to tackle the city’s shortfall in housing, Liverpool Council is writing to thousands of property owners as part of a review of empty sites city-wide. Those responsible for the vacant lots are being contacted to confirm if they are still empty or for fresh information regarding occupants.
The move comes shortly after the local authority announced it will hit property owners with 300% council tax for the longest-term vacant homes.
READ MORE: Armed police shoot out tyres of Delta taxi as man arrested
READ MORE: Historic Carnatic Halls could be bulldozed to make way for hundreds of homes
The property review is part of the council’s bid to reduce homelessness and its reliance on expensive temporary accommodation. As the city council battles with an ongoing housing crisis alongside continuing financial pressures, new proposals have been drawn up to clamp down on the number of sites left without occupants.
A premium of 100% of council tax will now be slapped on a house where it has been empty for at least a year, rather than two. Rates of 200% will be added onto homes vacant for five years.
In the case of properties left vacant for a decade or more, owners will be charged 300% except for exemptions. Based on current numbers it is estimated that this premium could generate additional council tax of £330k in 2025/26.
New legislation introduced by the government will also allow Liverpool Council to charge up to 100% of council tax for second homes from April next year. In such cases, 12 months’ notice would be required.
Nationally, the number of long-term empty properties in England has risen to over 248,000 – up 24% in the last six years. Homelessness charity, Crisis, believes up to 40,000 genuinely affordable homes could be provided across the country over the next four years if concerted action is taken to repurpose empty properties.
Cllr Ruth Bennett, Liverpool Council deputy leader and cabinet member for finance, resources and transformation, said: “Long-term, empty homes can fall into disrepair and are a blight on communities. They create an impression of neglect and decline in our communities and neighbourhoods, which is unfair on residents.
“We know there is a need for more affordable housing in the city to help alleviate homelessness. Reducing the numbers of empty properties will not only meet demand but will also enhance pride in an area, reduce crime and vandalism and mean more trade for local shops and businesses.
“The review of empty properties will mean we make sure that our records and council tax charges are up-to-date. This work is just one strand of the council’s response to the housing crisis and further initiatives will be announced over the year to increase affordable housing supply in the city.”
Don’t miss the biggest and breaking stories by signing up to the Echo Daily newsletter here