The situation
This property had been empty for over 6 years following the death of the owner and a fire at the property. No one was managing the property and no progress in selling the property had commenced. It was causing concern to neighbours and attracting rodents.

Council support
The Empty Homes Officer contacted specialist genealogists to trace potential heirs.  Solicitors dealing with the property were identified and informed of the concerns regarding the property, pest control actions were agreed and took place alleviating the concerns of neighbours. In addition, the Empty Homes Officer discussed the long-term plans for the property and the solicitors escalated plans to auction the property.

Outcome
The property was auctioned for sale weeks after contact from the Empty Homes Officer and has now been sold. Ground works have commenced before renovations start on the property.

The situation
This property had been empty for over two years and the owner required assistance with VAT reduction to be able to complete renovations to bring the property back into use.

Council support
The Empty Homes Officer advised the owner about the 5% VAT reduced rate, issued the required letter of authorisation

Outcome
The VAT reduction has helped the owner complete the renovations:

^{“It was good to catch up with you this morning and to show you what we have done here at the house.} 

^{We just want to thank you for all of your help, especially with the VAT discount. It made such a difference, it paid for the kitchen!  It helped with our budget too, saving us around £20,000.} 

^{Your courteous and professional approach made all the difference, thank you.”}

The situation

The property had been empty for six years, this was due initially to COVID restrictions, however, help was also needed to restart renovations. Initial contact was made by the Empty Homes officer following a check on the list of long term empty properties provided by council tax.

Council support
The Empty Homes Officer explained eligibility for 5% reduced VAT. This enabled costs to be reassessed and renovations to restart following issuing of the VAT notice. Alongside this, advice was given on new legislation regarding private renting to ensure the new tenant was issued with the correct documentation and all safety check completed.

Outcome
Property renovations completed and re-let:

^{“I think you asked me to confirm that my cottage in Malvern in now let- which it is. The one remaining thing I have to do is send my tenant the official form regarding the deposit, now safely transferred for him. I'll do that this evening so that is well within the legal dates required. Hopefully things will go smoothy from this point on.}

^{Thank you so much for your help. Malvern Council has been absolutely brilliant, offering genuine support and understanding throughout our complicated family housing situation over the past few years. We really appreciated this, and it has helped us reach a very positive outcome without any loss. Honestly, you have all been brilliant.}

^{Thanks for your guidance kindness and help."}