There is a widely acknowledged shortage of housing in the UK. However, the latest government statistics from November 2023 revealed that 261,189 long-term empty properties in England have been vacant for at least six months. That represents a 16% increase since 2019.
Since the government mothballed its Empty Homes programme in 2015, empty property grants in the UK have become increasingly few and far between.
Now, landlords are faced with a postcode lottery as to whether their local council has maintained their own funding programme to rejuvenate empty homes.
A Brief History of Empty Property Grants
Historically, empty property grants were part of national initiatives such as the Empty Homes Programme, run by the Homes and Communities Agency in the 2000s. These efforts were designed to revitalise derelict homes and ease housing shortages.
Today, central funding is rare. Instead, most grant schemes are handled at the local authority level, with specific rules and funding limits tailored to local housing needs.
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How Empty Property Grants Work Today
- In 2025, there’s no single UK-wide empty homes grant. Instead, each local council decides whether to offer a grant, a loan, or in-kind support (like VAT relief or planning help).These schemes aim to:
– Improve housing standards
– Increase affordable housing supply
– Revitalise neglected communities
– Prevent anti-social behaviour in empty buildingsMost grants are conditional—you may need to rent the property out or sell it after works are complete.
Regional Allocation of Empty Property Grants in the UK
Grant availability, eligibility criteria, and funding levels vary by region.
Examples of Current Local Empty Property Grant Schemes
Camden (London): Up to £80,000, 6+ months vacancy, must commit to affordable rents
Durham: Up to £15,000, 6+ months
Nottingham: £10,000 per unit, 6+ months
Scottish Borders: Up to £25,000, 12+ months, 75% for landlords, 50% for owner-occupiers
Wales (National Scheme): £25,000, 12+ months, 15% applicant contribution
Cheshire West & Chester: Up to £75,000, 12+ months
Sources : PropertyInvestmentsUK Gov.wales Scottish Borders London Landlords
Who Can Apply for an Empty Property Grant?
Eligibility depends on the council’s specific scheme, but typically you must:
– Own or have legal interest in the property
– Show the home has been vacant for 6 to 12 months
– Agree to complete specified improvement works
– Commit to letting or selling the property within guidelines
Incentives for Renovating Empty Properties
Local authorities may offer:
– Grants: Non-repayable funds (subject to conditions)
– Loans: Often interest-free, repaid on sale or letting
– Tax incentives: VAT reduced to 5% for renovations of properties empty 2+ years
– Council tax reductions during renovation (commonly 20%)
What Does the Grant Cover?
Grant-eligible work usually includes:
– Structural repairs and roofing
– Electrical and gas upgrades
– Boiler and central heating installation
– Damp proofing
– Kitchen and bathroom fitting
– Window and door replacement
Aesthetic improvements or luxury upgrades are not covered.
How to Apply for an Empty Property Grant
Each council runs its own process, but here’s a typical path:
1 Contact Your Local Council
Reach out to the empty homes officer or housing department.
2 Schedule a Property Inspection
An inspector may assess the property condition
3 Submit Your Application
Include contractor quotes, a renovation plan, and proof of ownership.
4 Wait for Approval & Begin Works:
Funding is released in stages or reimbursed upon completion.
Don’t Forget Unoccupied Property Insurance
Standard insurance may not cover a vacant home for more than 30–60 days. Get specialist unoccupied property insurance to protect against theft, vandalism, fire, storm damage, and public liability.
Check out our guide to unoccupied property insurance
Frequently Asked Questions
What classifies as an empty property?
A property unoccupied and unfurnished for at least 6 months. Some councils require 12 months.
Do I have to pay council tax on an empty property?
Yes. Most councils charge full council tax.
Who is eligible for vacant property refurbishment grant UK?
If you own a property that’s been empty for 6–12 months and meet local criteria, you may qualify.
How to get empty home grants in UK
To access grants for renovating empty homes in the UK, you’ll need to apply through your local council. These grants are typically managed by the council or a housing association and are designed to help bring empty properties back into use. Eligibility criteria and grant amounts vary by location, but generally, the property must be registered as empty for at least 12 months and
What is the empty homes program UK?
The Empty Homes program in the UK aims to bring vacant properties back into residential use, addressing the issue of empty homes and contributing to increased housing availability. This involves various initiatives, including grants for renovations, loans for property owners, and guidance for local authorities on tackling empty properties.
