When properties are left abandoned, the effects can extend beyond the building itself. Neighbouring homes and even the whole street can be affected. Often, people don’t realise a property has been abandoned until problems begin to surface and spread into the surrounding area. This can cause frustration to neighbours, while the property owner is unaware of the growing problems their property is creating.
Eyesore
It can be obvious when a property has been abandoned, especially when there are boarded‑up windows, overgrown gardens, and visible deterioration to the building. Not only does this create an eyesore for neighbours, but it can also lead to further issues. This can include water leaks, pest infestations, and structural damage that may become irreparable. Abandoned properties often attract vandalism and fly‑tipping, which can worsen the condition of the building and can create safety concerns for other residents.
Squatters
An abandoned property can quickly become a target for squatters because there’s often no one around to notice what’s happening. In the UK, there are an estimated 20,000 squatters. These buildings can be dangerous places to live, as many are deteriorating and structurally unsafe.
Value of surrounding homes
Did you know that an empty property can pull down the value of nearby homes by five to twenty percent? It is not a surprise that people do not want to live near an abandoned property. As damage and deterioration set in, the property loses value, and that decline affects the surrounding homes as well.
Case study
A BBC News report highlighted a recent abandoned property case. Concerns were first raised in 2019 when neighbours complained that a severely overgrown garden was causing a nuisance and even extending into the empty property’s conservatory. Despite years of visible deterioration, it was not until 2024 that the council began pursuing a Compulsory Purchase Order to take control of the property.
What is a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO)
A Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) is when a public authority, such as a council or utility provider, can legally acquire land without the owner’s consent. Even if the owner does not want to sell, the CPO is used as a last resort for projects that benefit the community.
The CPO Process
Information gathering: The acquiring authority must prepare detailed plans, reasoning, and evidence demonstrating that compulsory acquisition is a measure of last resort. Such reasoning may include situations where an abandoned property is causing harm or nuisance to neighbouring homes.
Resolution: The proposed plans will be shown to the relevant parties and must be approved to grant the CPO.
Information notice: The CPO has been publicised, giving affected owners or occupiers the opportunity to submit objections. If objections are submitted, a Public Local Inquiry will be scheduled and heard by a Planning Inspector.
Conformation: After the notice, the Inspector prepares a report, which is then considered by the confirming minister. The minister may confirm the CPO, confirm with modifications or reject it. Once confirmed, the acquiring authority has three years to implement the order.
How to identify an abandoned property
You may be a neighbour or a member of the community who has noticed an abandoned home that is causing issues to nearby residents or even affecting your own property. However, there may be some signs that are less obvious than others:
- A lack of visible activity, such as no lights on or an empty driveway.
- Gardens that are overgrown or not being maintained.
- Post or parcels piling up at the door.
- Windows that are boarded up or doors showing signs of damage.
- Rubbish dumped on or around the property, including fly‑tipped waste.
- Ongoing neglect, such as broken windows, flaking paint or missing roof tiles.
- Reports from neighbours or evidence of pest issues.
- Signs of vandalism or deliberate damage to the property.
While CPOs can be effective in certain situations, they are typically used only as a last resort for abandoned properties. A local authority may try to contact the owner first to encourage the owner to use it or take alternative action.
How can Blanchards help
Blanchards specialises in locating property owners or their next of kin when a property has been left empty. In cases where the owner has passed away, we trace the beneficiaries of their estate. This enables us to bring the property back into use and ensure it is returned to the rightful heir.
Report an abandoned property
If you believe a property may be abandoned, get in contact with us. Please include the property address, postcode and any observations you have made.
