New rules let English councils take control of homes vacant for six months

Angela Rayner said councils can now apply for an Empty Dwelling Management Order once a house has been empty for six months, a cut from the former two-year wait. The order allows councils to take possession, carry out repairs, let the property and collect rent, while owners retain ultimate ownership and can end the order by selling or re-occupying the home. Authorities must verify vacancy through council tax records, utility bills and site visits, and must issue at least three months' written notice before starting the process.

The measure excludes primary residences, homes in the process of being sold or let, and properties subject to probate, with second homes and holiday lets also shielded. Owners can appeal decisions to an independent Residential Property Tribunal, which will consider the likelihood of future occupation and the impact on property rights. Mortgage lenders say borrowers should check their policies early if they anticipate a vacancy lasting six months.