Empty homes
An empty home is a dwelling or residential property which has been unoccupied for more than six months.
Recognising an empty home
An ‘empty home’ is a house or other dwelling which:
- has been unoccupied for over six months
- is not for sale
- is not advertised to rent
Empty homes in a neighbourhood
Empty properties are often poorly maintained and can fall into disrepair. Neglected properties are more likely to become derelict and blight the neighbourhood with problems.
An empty house can:
- deteriorate and lose value
- create a health and safety risk
- attract squatters, vandals, burglars and antisocial behaviour
Reporting dangerous or derelict properties
You can report a dangerous or derelict property to your local council who can investigate. Each local council is responsible for investigating derelict, dangerous and insecure buildings in their area.
They have the authority to seek a remedy with the property owner. If you have concerns and want to report a derelict or dangerous property, contact your local council.
Local councils in Northern Ireland
Bring your empty home back into use
If you own an empty dwelling, you should consider the advantages of bringing the property back into use as a home.
You could:
- rent to a tenant
- sell the property
The Northern Ireland Housing Executive has further information on website.
Benefits to the local community
There is a demand for affordable housing in parts of Northern Ireland. An empty home could provide housing to rent or buy.
Bringing an empty home back into use can:
- improve the appearance of the neighbourhood
- provide housing for local people in need of a home
- reduce the likelihood of burglary
- reduce antisocial behaviour, for example, due to fire, vandalism, fly tipping, squatters and crime