Empty Properties: How Long Is Too Long?

The number of empty properties across the UK is steadily growing, creating challenges for both local communities and councils. This contributes to the housing crisis and the growing concerns of leaving a property empty for too long.

What Happens to a Property Left Empty

When a property is left empty for a long period of time, it not only affects the space but the surrounding area and residents.

• Empty properties may deteriorate and risk collapsing, creating safety concerns and impacting neighbours.
• Overgrown gardens can be a nuisance for neighbours.
• Visible unoccupied properties often attract anti-social behaviour such as fly tipping, vandalism and squatting. This can lead to increased anxiety among neighbours, some of whom may feel unsafe even leaving their homes after dark.
• Derelict properties can often drag down the value of surrounding homes, making it harder for residents to sell or rent their properties.

Law Change

If a property has been empty for more than two years and the owner is not cooperating, councils can apply for an Empty Dwelling Management Order (EDMO). The Local Government Association are proposing a change to this law. Instead of waiting two years, councils are now seeking authority over homes left empty for more than six months. Although an Empty Dwelling Management Order (EDMO) doesn’t gain ownership, it gives councils the power to act and bring the property back into use.

While this approach may seem like a solution to revitalising empty properties. This can have some potential challenges for heirs inheriting probate properties.

• Ownership of the Property: When homeowners die, their property often remains empty during the probate process as their assets are assessed and distributed. The probate process can be prolonged due to intestacy or family disputes.
• Long Probate Process: The probate process can be time consuming which can take months or even years. This can make it difficult to manage or make decisions regarding a vacant property.
• Incorrect Identification: Authorities may not be informed that a property is undergoing probate, which can result in it being mistakenly identified as empty.

Why It’s Important To Report An Empty Property

Empty properties might not seem like an immediate concern. However, reporting an empty property can play a vital role in revitalising an unused home. Doing so can support public planning and resources while addressing housing demands. Every empty home is a missed opportunity to offer someone or family a home.

How Probate Property Services Can Help

At Probate Property Services, we specialise in supporting clients with probate and empty properties. Our skilled team offers bespoke services from valuations to getting your property market ready to sold ensuring a smooth process.

Final Thoughts

Leaving a property for an extended period for time can cause negative effects to the property and impact the surrounding area. While the potential law changes aim to revitalise empty homes, they may present challenges for heirs inheriting probate properties.  Local councils will need to consider the probate process into account when acting on long-term empty homes.

Have you noticed an empty property in your area? If you wish to report an empty property, contact us today.