2,500 Empty Homes in Cornwall: Council Urges Owners to Act

Cornwall Council is highlighting the support available to property owners during National Empty Homes Week, which begins on 9th March, as it looks to bring long-term empty homes back into use across the county.

Figures show there are around 2,500 homes in Cornwall that have remained unfurnished and unoccupied for more than a year.

The national awareness week aims to draw attention to how empty properties can help increase the supply of much-needed homes if they are brought back into use.

The cost of leaving homes empty

While there are many reasons a property may remain empty for a long period, the cost to owners can rise over time.

These costs can include additional council tax premiums, insurance and ongoing maintenance or repairs. Empty properties can also create wider issues within communities.

Support available for property owners

Cornwall Council says it has several schemes designed to help owners return empty homes to use.

One option is the Empty Home Loan scheme, launched in October. This allows property owners to apply for a loan to fund renovation and restoration work, including options for people who may struggle to obtain finance from a traditional bank.

Another route is the Private Sector Leasing Scheme, where owners can lease their property to the council. This provides guaranteed rent for the full lease period while helping provide homes for local families in need. Financial support may also be available to help bring a property up to standard for the scheme.

For those who want to rent out a property but are unsure about becoming a landlord, the council also offers a Private Letting Service, where the property can be managed on the owner’s behalf.

Owners looking for guidance can also contact the council’s Empty Homes Team for advice via the council website: https://www.cornwall.gov.uk/housing/private-housing/empty-properties/

Call for owners to bring homes back into use

Peter La Broy, Cornwall Council cabinet member for housing, said:

“In my role I meet many people in need of a home to call their own. It’s clear that these homes are very much needed.

“At a time when we are seeing large numbers of people living in temporary accommodation and on our social housing register, empty homes are a wasted resource. They also have a wider impact on our communities, attracting vandalism and anti-social behaviour.

“If you are the owner of a property which has been empty on long-term basis, I believe you have a responsibility to bring your home back in to use – our schemes are there to remove some of the barriers.”