02/10/2026
Empty homes in England could face council action after 6 months.
The government has announced plans to cut the time a property must stand empty before a council can apply for an Empty Dwelling Management Order, from two years to six months.
If a tribunal grants an order, the council can take over managing the home and rent it out for up to seven years. The owner keeps ownership but loses day-to-day control.
This is still a proposal, and the two-year rule applies for now. Homes used as holiday lets are currently excluded.
If you own a property that's sitting empty, it's worth understanding what this could mean for you. Short-term letting keeps it occupied, earning and in your control.