The Scottish Empty Homes Partnership exists to help bring private sector empty homes back into use. The project is funded by the Scottish Government and housed by Shelter Scotland.
If you are concerned that a property is empty in your area report it at emptyhomes@shelter.org.uk or phone the Empty Homes Advice Service on 0344 515 1941.
Having a long term empty property in the neighbourhood is a wasted resource and can quickly become an eyesore through deterioration in condition and the risk of vandalism and crime.
It is the responsibility of home owners to maintain their property and to keep it in good order. However, there are many reasons why properties become vacant long term and the Council wants to help owners to bring these homes back into use.
If a property is empty longer than 6 months, the Council tax payments are affected. Including the cost of Council Tax, security boarding and potential lost rent, it is estimated that it costs around £7,000 a year to leave a home empty. As well as that, the longer a property is empty the less valuable it becomes.