Case Studies

The pictures below show a small selection of the empty properties that Officers are actively dealing with. The vast majority of properties are brought back into use through advice and guidance or being able to offer financial assistance in appropriate cases. However, where the property is causing problems to the community and the owner fails to engage with the Council in a constructive manner, then more formal action will be pursued.

Have a look at the case studies to see the different methods Councils use to help owners bring their properties back into use.

  • Advice & Guidance

    The Empty Property Officer is able to give free impartial advice. If you need advise on undertaking the works at the property, securing financial assistance or prefer to sell the property, we can assist.

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  • Sell or Renovate

    A property owned by an elderly lady who had moved out of the property a number of years ago to live with another family member. The property had been the subject to repeated vandalism and was deteriorating further.

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  • Property Guardians

    Half built homes lie empty up and down the country as project funds dry up. Derelict houses in need of repair also have to sit and wait while private landlords and developers retrench. The number of properties, both residential and commercial – languishing unoccupied is on the increase.

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  • Housing Act 2004 –Empty Dwelling Management Order

    The above property in Swale had been empty for the previous 9 months. The owner had to move away from the area but had been unable to secure the sale of the property due to the level of outstanding debts against the property. The property had a number of mortgages and charges secured against it.

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