Empty Homes Policy

Resourcing

10.1 The Government currently provides incentives to local authorities to increase housing supply through the New Homes Bonus scheme, although there is uncertainty about the continuation of this scheme in future years. For each long-term empty home brought back into use councils receive a financial reward. The bonus is based on achieving a net reduction in the number of long-term empty homes each year. An additional bonus is paid if the dwellings are returned to use as affordable homes.