South Cambridgeshire is making significant strides in tackling the housing crisis by bringing empty homes back into use. With around 60 vacant properties set to be transformed within two years, the District Council is urging property owners to take action during National Empty Homes Week.
Bringing Empty Homes Back to Life
In 2023/24 alone, 28 properties that had been left unused and vacant were successfully revived. A similar number is expected to be brought back into use by the end of the current financial year, thanks to proactive efforts by the Council.
If you own an empty home in South Cambridgeshire, now is the time to consider turning it into a valuable asset through sale or rental. Not only can this help alleviate the housing shortage, but there are also financial incentives available to make the process more affordable.
Save Thousands on Renovations with VAT Discounts
Owners of empty homes can save thousands of pounds in VAT on renovation costs by working with South Cambridgeshire District Council’s Empty Homes Officer. Typically, home maintenance and improvement costs are subject to a 20% VAT rate, but the Government offers a reduced 5% VAT rate for properties that have been unoccupied for over two years.
To qualify for this substantial saving, simply email env.health@scambs.gov.uk with details about your property. The Council will provide the necessary paperwork to confirm the home’s vacancy status, allowing you to claim the reduced VAT rate.
For example, a bungalow in Hardwick recently underwent a stunning transformation after its owner took advantage of this initiative. What was once a neglected property is now a comfortable family home.
Council’s Actions to Bring Homes Back into Use
The District Council has implemented several measures to revitalise neglected properties, including:
- Issuing Community Protection Warnings for severely overgrown and abandoned homes, with legally enforceable notices for those who fail to comply.
- Helping long-term vacant property owners sell at auction, including homes left empty since 2004 and 2008. These properties were purchased by skilled professionals who are restoring them into livable spaces.
- Working with a Probate Genealogist to trace ownership in complex legal cases.
The Risks of Leaving a Property Empty
Leaving a property vacant comes with significant risks, including:
- Arson, theft, and vandalism
- Damage from overgrown foliage affecting neighboring properties
- Pest infestations from rodents and vermin
- Financial losses from missed rental income, costly maintenance, and increased insurance fees
