New council tax pricing system that is specific to empty properties
Doncaster Council swells as most other councils across the county have a new council tax pricing system that is specific to empty properties.
It can mean that at maximum empty houses could be charged 400% of the council tax
Prior to 01/04/2020
Properties which are empty and unoccupied for two years are subject to a 50 % premium, added to the usual Council Tax charge. This means a 150% charge is payable.
From 01/04/2020
The premium is increasing in line with new legislation (The charge examples assume a standard Council Tax charge of £1,000.00).
Properties empty for 2 to 5 years will be subject to a 100% premium. This means a 200% charge will be payable e.g. £2,000.00.
Properties empty for more than 5 years will be subject to a 200% premium. This means a 300% charge will be payable e.g. £3,000.00
From 01/04/21
Properties empty for more than 10 years will be subject to a 300% premium. This means a 400% charge will be payable e.g. £4,000
Please note:
The 2, 5 and 10-year periods start when the property becomes empty and unoccupied and do not start again with a change of ownership.
Empty and substantially furnished properties are charged 100% from day one but do not attract a premium.
The premium is subject to change.
It is important to note that if any of the following apply, you will not be liable for the premium:
- The property has been empty and unoccupied for less than two years;
- The property was previously occupied under a short lease of fewer than two years;
- The property is being refurbished or renovated;
- The property is being maintained by a local authority or registered social landlord.
Please note:
For Council Tax purposes, residential property is considered empty and unoccupied if left unoccupied and unfurnished for at least 15 days.
