Empty Properties and Council Tax Premiums – Convert to Holiday Lets in the UK

Owning an empty property in the UK can be costly. Councils across England, Wales, and Scotland impose empty home premiums, charging higher council tax for properties left unoccupied. Homeowners in London, Bath, or Edinburgh may face 100% premiums or more, making unused properties a financial burden.

Holiday Lets as a Solution

By converting your property into a holiday let, you can avoid empty home premiums while generating income. Even modest occupancy rates can offset council tax charges, turning a liability into a profit-making asset.

For example, a two-bedroom flat in central London facing a £1,500 annual empty home premium could cover this cost by renting the property for just 25 nights at £120 per night, while also making extra revenue.

Case Study: Victorian Townhouse in Bath

A client in Bath had a vacant property incurring a 100% council tax premium. After converting it to a professionally managed holiday let, the home achieved 80% summer occupancy, generating enough income to cover the council tax and maintenance costs, turning a liability into a productive asset.

Additional Benefits for UK Landlords

• Professional Management: Agencies manage bookings, cleaning, and guest communication.

• Property Preservation: Occupied homes stay maintained and secure.

• Income Optimisation: Holiday lets can outperform long-term rents, especially in tourist hotspots like Brighton, Edinburgh, or Cornwall.

For UK homeowners facing council tax premiums, holiday lets offer a practical way to unlock earnings, maintain your property, and avoid unnecessary penalties.