What we are doing to reduce the number of empty properties in Hull
Hull has a large housing need and utilising empty homes by bringing them back into use is one way we can increase the amount of housing available to residents. We also understand the potential detrimental effect that empty properties can have on area. The number of empty properties is monitored by Hull City Council. The data on the number of empty properties in Hull can be accessed on the Hull Data Observatory website.
We encourage owners to bring their properties back into use as much-needed housing in a number of different ways including working in partnership with other organisations refurbish empty homes.
- Empty properties are classed as being 'Long Term Empty' if they have been empty for longer than 6 months. Properties that are mainly unfurnished and have been empty for one year will be charged an additional 100% long-term empty property premium. For 5 years this increases to 200%, and 300% for 10 years or more
- Any landlords that have homes that they are struggling to let homes can contact Hull City Council’s Private Sector Access team to enquire about any assistance we may be able to offer with allocating tenants
- We understand that a property may become vacant for a number of reasons. Any owners that have an empty property and would like advice around empty homes or would be interested in selling can contact Hull City Council’s Private Housing team
Hull City Council is working on an Empty Homes Plan. This will be published once complete.
Empty properties in the private sector
If you are aware of an empty property, you can report it to us.
We investigate empty properties. This is to ensure that any nuisance they are causing is dealt with. This may involve -
- boarding up properties
- clearing away rubbish
- stopping water leaks
After dealing with any urgent issues, we contact the owner. We encourage them to sell the property or renovate it and rent it out.
If a property has been empty for over 6 months and is in need of repair, we may be able to buy the property. Or we may provide help and advice for property owners on bringing their property back into use. We will contact owners of properties empty for over 6 months. This is to record what action is being taken to bring the property back into use.
We also work with landlords to assist with the letting of properties. You can find out more information about the Private Sector Access Team.
Find out more about open trespass.
Access more information about fly-tipping.
Leasing or renting your property to the council
Although we have the powers to take control of empty properties this is a last resort. We do not generally rent properties from private owners as we have nearly 25,000 council homes.
You can also find out more information about the Private Sector Access Team.
Some services may need a property that cannot be found in the available council stock. The Refugee Service work with landlords. This is to enable them to offer tenancies to refugee families, who pay their rent to landlords via housing benefits or Universal Credit. It is usually with an arranged direct payment to landlords.
Empty Home queries
Complete this form if you have a query relating to Empty Home services.