The UK is experiencing a housing crisis, with people struggling to find affordable and suitable homes leading to financial strain and increase of homelessness. Another side to this crisis that often gets unnoticed which is the number of empty properties. Across the UK, over 260,000 properties sit empty. If these properties could be reported, many have the potential to be revitalised and brought back into use.
Empty Properties: The Problem
There are many reasons why homes remain unoccupied. Complications around inheritance can leave homes sitting empty for years. Most often, owners pass away without leaving behind clear instructions regarding the disposition of their assets. Locating the owner of an empty property requires navigating through legal documents, property records, and historical archives. This can complicate the matters further, leading to disputes between heirs, unpaid taxes or trouble finding the rightful beneficiaries which can stall the process.
Current Issue With Empty Properties
Local authorities have identified the issue of empty properties across the UK and want to take charge by proposing changes to the Empty Dwelling Management Order (EDMO). An EDMO is a legal tool that allows local authorities to take control of residential properties that has been empty for at least two years. However, the council is calling for a change in the law, with a London Council leader stating: ‘Homes that have sat vacant for more than six months should be brought into the control of the local authority’ as per the BBC.
While this may seem like a solution in tackling the issue of empty properties. This can have some potential challenges for heirs inheriting properties.
- Proving Ownership: Some empty properties can be in the process of wills, intestacy or family disputes which can cause extended time figuring out the ownership of the property.
- Long Process: The legal process of probate can take months or even years, which can create complications when dealing with empty properties.
- Misidentification: Authorities may not always be aware that the property is in probate which can misidentify the ‘empty’ property.
Why Revitalising Empty Properties Matters
Although it may not appear urgent, reporting empty properties can play a vital role in revitalising unused homes. This not only supports more effective public resource allocations and planning but also helps address housing needs. Every empty property is a missed opportunity to provide a home for an individual or family.
The Role of Blanchards
Empty properties most often arise due to owners passing away without family to handle their estate. When you report any empty properties to Blanchards, we endeavour to locate the nearest family through genealogy and tracing efforts. This process can identify the heirs to the empty property and bring it back into use. Our services include tracing missing beneficiary, managing the estate and securing the empty property.
Final Thoughts
Reporting an empty property benefits the entire community. Every empty home reported helps improve local housing supply, stimulates economic activity, enhances the overall appearance and safety of the area. It also ensures that public resources are used wisely by enabling better planning and allocation. By taking a moment to report an empty property, you’re playing a key role in improving the housing supply.
If you wish to report an empty property, please get in touch with us.
