We offer advice and support to help bring privately owned empty homes back into use. This service is for:
- owners of empty homes
- neighbours affected by empty homes
- people interested in buying or renovating an empty home
What is an empty home?
An empty home is a privately owned residential property that has not been lived in for 6 months or more.
Why empty homes matter
Empty homes are a valuable resource. Bringing them back into use can:
- help meet local housing needs
- increase the number of available homes
- improve safety in communities
- support regeneration efforts
Costs of owning an empty home
Owning an empty home can be expensive. The Scottish Empty Homes Partnership estimates that it can cost over £7,000 a year. This includes:
- council tax
- basic security
- lost rental income
Other costs may include:
- repairs and maintenance
- damage from burst pipes, fire or vandalism
Use the empty home cost calculator to estimate your costs.
Empty homes can also affect neighbours. Properties that are not maintained may attract vandalism and become unsightly, which can impact the surrounding area.
Why homes are left empty
There are many reasons why a home might be empty. These include:
- the previous owner has died
- the owner has moved into care or hospital
- the property is damaged or uninhabitable
- financial difficulties make repairs unaffordable
Whatever the reason, support is available to help bring the home back into use.
Support for owners
If you own an empty home, we can help you:
- understand your options
- get advice on selling, renting or refurbishing
- find information about bringing the home back into use
Support for neighbours
If you live near an empty home, we can help:
- investigate properties that are not being returned to use
- contact owners who are hard to trace
- support neighbours and communities affected by empty homes
Benefits of bringing a home back into use
For owners:
- receive a lump sum if the property is sold
- earn rental income if the property is let
- increase the property’s value
- reduce ongoing costs
- lower insurance premiums
- reduce stress and worry
For neighbours and the community:
- reduce the risk of disrepair
- improve the look of the neighbourhood
- support local shops and services
- help keep schools and transport running
- provide a home for someone in need