Owners of empty homes in Rhondda Cynon Taf (RCT) have been urged to “do the right thing” and convert their properties into residences as the council has approved increased council tax premiums for long-term empty homes. The decision, made during RCT’s full council meeting on the 25th of September, entails that owners of properties vacant for more than three years will have to pay triple the standard rate, while those with homes empty for one to three years will pay double the standard rate.
Under the new plan, properties empty for one to three years will incur a 100% premium, effectively doubling their council tax liability. For properties empty for more than three years, the premium will be set at 200%, resulting in owners having to pay three times the standard rate of council tax. The move aims to incentivise property owners to address the issue of vacant homes in the area.
Councillor Andrew Morgan, the Labour leader of the council, highlighted that the premiums on empty properties have been successful in reducing the number of vacant properties. He emphasised that there are grants available and described the approach as a “carrot and stick” method to encourage action. Additionally, he noted that a significant portion of empty property owners do not reside in RCT, and local residents are eager to see these properties put to use.
Councillor Christina Leyshon echoed the sentiment, urging owners to “do the right thing” and emphasising that these properties are currently an eyesore in the community. However, Councillor Sera Evans of Plaid Cymru raised concerns about the premium for properties empty between one and two years, proposing further scrutiny to assess if this group requires additional support or discretion in applying the premium.
The council report revealed that there are a significant number of properties lying vacant in RCT, with varying durations of emptiness ranging from a few months to more than five years. The new premium rates for long-term empty properties, including second homes, are set to come into effect from April 2025. Owners will be notified of these changes in due course.
The increased revenue from the council tax premiums is estimated to generate around £750,000 annually, subject to review and confirmation based on exceptions. This additional revenue will support the continuation of the council’s efforts to address empty homes in the area. The council also has the option to intervene, including through compulsory purchase order proceedings, in cases where property owners show no intention of repurposing their empty properties.
Overall, the council received 157 responses to the consultation, with the majority expressing disagreement with the proposed premium rates for long-term empty properties. The feedback highlighted differing perspectives between residents and property owners on the issue. The changes are part of RCT’s ongoing strategy to revitalise vacant properties and enhance the local community.
In conclusion, the initiative to increase council tax premiums on long-term empty homes in Rhondda Cynon Taf underscores the council’s commitment to addressing housing challenges and promoting responsible property ownership in the area. The move aims to not only boost revenue but also encourage property owners to contribute positively to the community by revitalising empty properties.