Pembrokeshire County Council has agreed to change the council tax premium on long-term empty properties.
From April 1, 2025, a single rate of 300 per cent will be applied to all properties that have been empty for two years or more.
This replaces the previous system where the premium increased incrementally.
Councillor Joshua Beynon, cabinet member for corporate finance and efficiencies, said: “The premium is in place to encourage the return of properties into use as much needed homes in Pembrokeshire and to reduce the impact of empty homes on the communities around them.”
The premium is an addition to the standard council tax charge and applies to all three elements – council, police and crime commissioner, and town and community councils.
Council taxpayers who are renovating their properties can apply for a council tax exemption.
This can be applied to the property for a maximum period of 12 months if the property requires major repair works or structural alteration.
This exemption means that no council tax is payable for this 12-month period.
If the exemption has already been awarded, taxpayers can apply for a discretionary discount, which can be awarded up to the level of the long-term empty property premium.
In those instances, the standard council tax charge is still payable.
Taxpayers are required to provide written details of the works required together with photographic evidence as each case is considered on its own merits.
This discount is normally awarded for up to a maximum period of 12 months.
Pembrokeshire County Council is also participating in the National Empty Homes Grant Scheme, which will give owners of empty properties access to a grant of up to £25,000 if their property meets the required criteria.
More information about the grant can be found on the National Empty Homes Grant website and applications for the council tax discount can be made by emailing revenue.services@pembrokeshire.gov.uk or by writing to Revenue Services, County Hall, Haverfordwest, SA61 1TP.