Empty Homes

The Council believes that the presence of long term vacant homes in Torbay is a waste of useful resource.  In times of high demand for housing and with the present housing shortage we are encouraging owners of empty houses to bring them back into use.  Obviously such houses are not providing the rental income that could be achieved.

Vacant houses tend to fall into neglect and overgrown gardens and a dilapidated appearance generally detracts from the neighbourhood.

Owners have a range of options available to them.  They can repair the property for renting or sell it on the market through a reputable estate agent.  Alternatively they can enter into a long term leasing arrangement with a local housing association for them to repair and manage the house.

As a back-up power the Council may compulsorily acquire a house that has been empty for some time.

We are also interested in encouraging owners of vacant commercial accommodation such as discussed storage rooms over shops, former factory units to convert them into flats.

We have a range of financial assistance for both landlords and potential owners occupiers, to help bring back long term empty properties into use to help with our aims.

If you are aware of long term vacant properties in the area where live please contact the Housing Standards Team.