The Problem of Empty Homes in UK
A serious long term problem in the UK is a shortage of houses. (why is there a shortage of housing in UK?) The number of newly built houses in 2008, was the lowest figure since the second world war. Because of a shortage of housing, the ratio of house price to earnings has increased above its long term average creating difficulties for first time buyers.
The government is keen to increase the number of new houses built. However, these often prove controversial. There is widespread opposition to new ‘eco towns’ which lead to a loss of the environment.
It is surprising to find out there is actually a huge number of empty houses in the UK. The Empty Homes Agency estimates that there are 840,000 empty homes in the UK. They also estimate that another 400,000 houses could be created from existing commercial property.
Why Are Homes Left Empty?
- Cost of rebuilding dilapidated housing
- Property speculation. People buy to leave. People buy a new house and then don’t let it out to maintain the new house’ premium. Rising property valued have meant less incentive to get rentable income
- Problems in getting planning permission to develop houses.
- Costs and bureaucracy of renting out houses.
- People take time to sell houses they have inherited.
- 2nd Homes, which people don’t live in.
Problems of Empty Houses
- Lower value of neighbouring houses. It is estimated an empty house can cause a neighbouring house to sell for 18% less than market average.
- Increased risk of arson and theft.
Dealing With Empty Homes
- Local authorities may use their Housing and Planning Delivery Grant to subsidise home improvements
- Inform local council who have ability to power to place an empty dwelling management order (EDMO) on a home and make it be used.
- Government tax subsidies for renovation and high tax on unoccupied houses.
- A local campaign to encourage landlords to make use
Related
- UK Housing Market
- Vacant Homes at the Times
- Scandal of Empty Homes at the BBC
Original post by Tejvan R Pettinger