Decision details

To approve exceptions to the council tax premiums on empty homes and second homes from April 2025.

Decision Maker: Deputy Chief Executive (Section 151 Officer) - Paul Jones

Decision status: Recommendations Approved

Is Key decision?: No

Is subject to call in?: No

Decision:


To approve exceptions to the council tax premiums on empty homes and second homes from April 2025. The council tax charges in respect of empty properties and second homes are detailed in the attached appendix with the exceptions showing at the end of the document.

Reasons for the decision:

On 23rd February 2024 Council approved the following recommendations:
1. That Council approves the change to the Empty Homes Premium so that properties which have been unoccupied and unfurnished for one year, instead of two, will become subject to the 100% premium from April 2025.

2. That Council approves the implementation of the 100% Second Homes Premium from April 2025.

3. That Council gives delegated authority to the Executive Director for Finance Assets and Regeneration in consultation with the Cabinet Member Finance and Assets to amend the policy so that it meets the requirements of any guidance/ regulations due to be issued by Government and to ensure the premiums are administered efficiently.
The Council Tax (Prescribed Classes of Dwellings and Consequential Amendments) (England) Regulations 2024 have been made which set out the circumstances in which a property may be exempt from the empty home or second home premium.

Alternative options considered:

None. Applying the exceptions is mandatory.

Declarations: None

Other reasons / organisations consulted

None

Contact: Jayne Gilpin, Head of Revenues and Benefits.

Publication date: 17/12/2024

Date of decision: 13/12/2024