Glossary

Empty property premium

The extra charge — up to 300% — councils can add to homes left empty for a long time.

Councils can charge a premium on top of the standard council tax for long-term empty homes: 100% after 1 year, 200% after 5 years, 300% after 10 years. From April 2024 the 1-year threshold applies from purchase, closing a loophole for buy-to-leave. The premium is on top of your normal band charge, so a Band D home empty over 10 years pays 400% of Band D.

Related terms

Chargeable dwelling
A property that attracts council tax — most homes, but not all buildings on a plot.

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