There are now more than 700,000 empty homes in England, according to the latest government figures. Of these, nearly 265,000 have been empty for six months or more, often called “long-term empty” properties.
Empty homes are more than just unused buildings. When a home sits empty, properties can fall into disrepair and may attract issues such as vandalism, fly-tipping, or antisocial behaviour. This can affect how safe and secure people feel in their neighbourhoods.
Some residents report that living next to a long-term empty property can be a source of ongoing concern. These experiences highlight the wider impact empty homes can have on local communities.
At the same time, many people across the UK continue to face challenges accessing safe and secure housing. Recent figures show that thousands of people are sleeping rough on any given night in England. Bringing empty homes back into use could help to ease some of this pressure.
There are a number of reasons why properties remain empty. In some cases, owners may not have the funds available to carry out necessary repairs. In others, homes may be tied up in legal processes, such as probate. Some owners may simply be unsure what support is available or what steps to take.
Local authorities are working to address the issue. This can include identifying property owners, offering guidance, and encouraging homes to be repaired, rented, or sold. In certain circumstances, councils have powers to intervene, although these are not always straightforward to use.
A range of approaches may help bring empty homes back into use. These can include support from local councils, selling the property, or exploring financial options where appropriate, depending on individual circumstances.
Empty homes affect communities in different ways. By understanding the causes and considering the range of possible solutions, it may be possible to support more homes being brought back into use over time.
You can read the full BBC report on empty homes here: BBC Empty Homes Report
