Following the Government's Levelling-up and Regeneration Act, which came into force on 26 October 2023, local councils can now charge higher Council Tax on properties that are defined as long-term empty homes and properties that are only occupied occasionally (second homes).
Horsham District Council is introducing a consultation inviting local residents and businesses to have their say on the new policy proposals. The consultation will start on Tuesday 5 December and end on Friday 5 January.
An added charge is intended to encourage owners to bring properties back into use and could boost the supply of properties available to rent or buy in the Horsham District, which would be a benefit to local people.
The Council is considering two changes:
Proposal One: From 1 April 2024, to reduce the length of time a property can be unoccupied and unfurnished before being charged an added 100% Council Tax premium (twice the Council Tax charge) from the current two years to one year.
Proposal Two: From 1 April 2025, to increase the Council Tax payable on a second home property by 100% to twice the Council Tax charge, where there is no resident, and which is substantially furnished.
For more information and to take part in the consultation please visit the Council website.
Once the consultation results are analysed, final proposals will be presented to a Horsham District Council Cabinet meeting in January 2024.