Labour proposes cutting vacancy rule to six months, boosting council power over empty homes

Labour’s housing agenda includes new powers for local councils to acquire long-vacant dwellings after just six months of emptiness, replacing the former two-year rule. Ministers will also accelerate the tribunal procedure that authorises these acquisitions and seek to protect councils from the financial burden of Empty Dwelling Management Orders, which have seen no applications since 2021. The policy is framed as a response to an estimated 300,000 empty homes that could be turned into safe housing for children and families.

By intervening earlier, authorities hope to prevent properties from falling into severe disrepair and bring them back into use more quickly. Further reforms to shield local authorities from costs are also being explored.