Councils in England will be able to step in much sooner on long-term empty properties under reforms announced by the Government.
The changes affect Empty Dwelling Management Orders (EDMOs), which let local authorities take over the management of a vacant home and return it to occupation for up to seven years. Ownership stays with the property owner throughout.
Under the reforms, a home will become eligible for an EDMO after being empty for just six months, down from the current two years. Ministers say acting earlier will help stop properties falling into serious disrepair.
The application process will also be simplified. Councils will no longer need to provide evidence on issues such as anti-social behaviour or community support for intervention when applying through the Residential Property Tribunal.
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government said the measures will help make better use of existing housing stock. It is also exploring further changes to strengthen the EDMO regime.
