Report an empty home

Empty homes are a problem that affects the whole of the UK. They attract anti-social behaviour, crime, social issues, and urban decay. We want to work with property owners to help bring empty houses back into use so they can benefit local people and become homes once again.

Report an empty property in your area

Do you know or live near a property that has been empty for six months or more? If so, we want to hear from you!

Report an empty home

For any general enquiries, please email Private Sector Housing (Privatesector.Housing@breckland.gov.uk).

Enforcement options

We are keen to work with property owners to address the issue of empty homes. However, there are a number of enforcement routes available to Breckland Council should a homeowner refuse to engage or return the property back into use:

• Enforced Sale procedure: This option may be considered for homes where the council has had to use its enforcement powers to abate nuisance or to secure a home.
• Empty Dwelling Management Order: The council takes over the management of a property, carrying out works where applicable, and then renting the property out.
• Compulsory Purchase Order: This allows the council to acquire property and remove it from the ownership of the current owner.
• Other statutory powers: All empty properties will be assessed and inspected under the Housing Act 2004 Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS). 
  • The Housing Act places a duty on local authorities to take action when the most serious (Category 1) hazards are identified in any subsequent enforced sale action.