The Council's Environmental Enforcement Team ensures that empty properties are kept secure and free from rubbish.
We have powers granted in the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982, section 29, to do this.
Dumped waste on empty properties
Empty properties that are being used as a place where people dump their waste can be investigated by the Environmental Enforcement Team.
If we find or suspect a vermin infestation, we can order owners to clear the waste and to erect fencing to deter further dumping.
Recovering costs
The cost of taking statutory action can be put as a charge on the property.
If we have accumulated enough costs (including unpaid Council Tax), the Council can take legal action to take possession of a property. We will then sell it to recover our costs.
Bringing derelict properties back into use
The Council is determined to tackle derelict property blighting the borough. Empty property rapidly falls into disrepair and often gives rise to anti social behaviour.
New powers contained within the 2004 Housing Act allow us to make representation to the Property Tribunal to requisition property for seven years.
Responsibilities of property owners
Owning a property carries duties and obligations. Absentee owners who allow their empty property to fall into disrepair and cause a nuisance will face enforcement action.
The vast majority of derelict and eyesore property is privately owned. You can check on the ownership of a derelict property online at the Land Registry website (follow the link on the right).
Tracing and contacting an owner of an empty property is often not easy, but our Empty Property Manager (whose contact details are below) may be able to help.
How we deal with derelict properties
Our focus is on long-term empty and derelict property. In 2005, six properties were targeted. As a result of action, work has resumed to bring five of these six properties back into use. Compulsory purchase is planned on the one property owner who has not responded to offers of support, help and advice.
Grants for owners of empty properties
Grants are available to help owners tackle empty property. A maximum of £50,000 is available, if a range of grant conditions are met.
Contact our Empty Properties Manager for further information.