The latest Council Tax base statistics released in November 2025 show that the number of empty homes in England has continued to rise since 2021. As we enter the new year, the data highlights the persistent growth in long‑term empty properties and the ongoing challenge of bringing these homes back into use.
Empty Properties
The Council Tax base data shows an 8% increase in empty properties in 2025. Properties left vacant for more than six months are classed as long‑term empty. This can occur for a range of reasons including probate delays, stalled renovation projects or affordability issues. Homes that remain unoccupied for extended periods often attract anti‑social behaviour, especially when there are visible signs of neglect. Some indicators of an empty property can include overgrown gardens, boarded‑up windows or broken roof tiles. Bringing these properties back into use can help improve local communities and overall surrounding market value.
Housing Pressures
Housing pressures are intensifying across the UK. The use of temporary accommodation remains high, homelessness statistics continue to increase, and affordable housing is becoming a challenge for buyers. In response, the government are setting initiatives to repurpose vacant student halls, offices, and residential properties into accommodation.
Councils increasing empty homes premiums on empty homes and second homes reflects the pressure on local authorities. These measures are intended to influence behaviour and encourage owners to return properties to the market and communities.
Changes in 2026
At the end of the 2025-26 tax year, New Homes Bonus will come to an end. The New Homes Bonus is a grant from the UK government to local councils, rewarding housing growth across the UK. This recognises new-build housing and bringing long-term empty homes back into use. However, the removal of the New Homes Bonus will change how councils will manage and distribute house funding. Although this grant is coming to an end, bringing empty properties back into use remains essential. Long-term empty homes can provide valuable housing supply to the council with community benefits and reduced costs.
How Blanchards Can Assist
Blanchards specialises in tracing owners and locating living heirs of empty properties throughout the UK. By locating the heirs of probate property owners, we help ensure that previously empty homes can be restored and returned to the market. We offer property management services to secure and maintain the empty home until the sale is finalised. We offer this service at no cost to members of the public sector.
Final Thoughts
The rising trend of long-term empty properties across the UK highlights a challenge in bringing back properties back into use. The government and local authorities are responding by adopting different strategies, from building new houses, increasing empty homes taxes and bring empty properties back into circulation. Every empty home represents a missed opportunity for an individual or a family. If you have noticed an empty property, get in contact with us today.
