Council tax to be doubled on second homes and empty properties

Council tax rates will double on second homes and empty properties in South Cambridgeshire from 2026, South Cambridgeshire District Council has announced.

The local authority estimates that there are around around 3,000 empty and second homes in the district. The aim is to reduce this number.

Cllr Natalie Warren-Green, lead cabinet member for environmental services at South Cambridgeshire District Council, said: “Bringing empty homes back into use is more than just a housing solution – it’s a step toward stronger, more vibrant communities. Every property that is left empty is wasted potential, while every home we can bring back into use contributes to tackling housing shortages.

“By making the best use of what we already have, we reduce environmental impact, tackle the housing crisis, and create sustainable healthy homes and vibrant communities.”

South Cambridgeshire District Council is keen to highlight that the government offers a 5% VAT rate on renovations for properties that have been unoccupied for more than two years but were previously lived in; an incentive that it hopes will appeal to property owners and investors.