The Government has called for a consultation on its proposal to bring more long-term empty homes in England back into use. The consultation will be on how Empty Dwelling Management Orders should operate.
These will enable councils to take over temporary management of longer term unoccupied houses and flats so that they can be let out to tenants. Properties will revert to their owners on an agreed date, provided notice is given and arrangements to repay any costs incurred by councils are settled. The Government have said that the Management Orders would only be used if owners were not willing to co-operate or could show a valid reason why the property should remain empty.
Our view
At last, a sensible idea!