Empty properties

Empty properties can be a problem for a number of reasons:

They are a magnet for children who see them as an adventure playground, not realising how dangerous they can be. If a property is not kept secure against access and a person is injured in or on the property, the owner can be liable.
They attract vandalism, windows get broken, pipe work gets exposed and damaged, rubbish is dumped, and this in turn attracts vermin that can thrive in such conditions.
They are a depreciating asset. When a property starts to fall into disrepair, it soon losses value, and quickly becomes costly to repair.
They have a negative impact on the their immediate surroundings leading to a loss of confidence in the area and this in turn can lead to a lessening of value in the surrounding properties.

Empty properties are also potential homes and if brought back into use will reduce the need for building on Greenfield sites.

The government has set targets for local Councils to bring empty properties back into use. The Borough Council has a "Empty homes policy" with our own targets and is also considering grants packages to encourage owners, to repair and let out empty properties.

To report an empty property or to discuss an empty property you own please contact us:

Private Sector Housing, Maidstone Borough Council, Maidstone House, King Street, Maidstone, ME15 6JQ.

By telephone: 01622 602470, or by email Private Sector Housing.