Council tax rise on second and empty homes in South Cambs

South Cambridgeshire District Council is to raise council tax on second and vacant properties.

It will be doubled on long-term vacant and second properties from April 2026 in a bid to bring more empty homes back into use.

The aim is to encourage people to sell or rent their properties to tackle a national housing shortfall - which is particularly high in South Cambridgeshire.

Council Tax for a band D property in South Cambridgeshire is currently £2,303 per year. Under the new policy for second or empty homes, this would increase to £4,606 and be due after one year, rather than two.

Council estimates suggest there are around 2,640 empty homes in the district, and a further 360 second properties.

In some circumstances property owners will be able to claim an exemption from the premium. These include:

• Homes being actively marketed for sale or let for a period of up to 12 months.
• A dwelling which has undergone probate for a period of up to 12 months after the grant of probate.
• Dwellings which are periodically occupied in certain job-related circumstances. For example, a pitch occupied by a caravan, or a mooring occupied by a boat. Or where a planning condition prevents permanent occupancy. 
• A property undergoing major work to make it habitable, or structural alteration, for a period of up to twelve months.

Councillor John Williams, Lead Cabinet member for Resources at South Cambridgeshire District Council:

"We want to see empty or second homes brought back into use, whether as rentals or properties for sale. 

"This initiative will not only help address housing demands but also bolster local businesses and economies by making better use of available housing. 

"Leaving homes empty for extended periods wastes a critical resource, especially when housing demand is at record highs and social housing waiting lists are growing. Moreover, unmanaged and neglected empty homes often lead to vandalism, social issues, and decay, which can harm the well-being of neighbouring residents and communities. 

"It’s vital we act to maximise the potential of our existing housing stock."

Star Radio understands the change will generate an additional £100,000 a year in income for South Cambridgeshire which we're told, will help front vital frontline services.