Islington Council is set to charge a premium on council tax for homes left empty for extended periods and second homes, aiming to incentivise owners to bring properties back into use and address the borough's housing needs.
The decision, made at the Islington Council meeting on 4 December 2025, is part of a broader effort to ensure the best use of available properties in the borough.
The approved proposals include:
- Maintaining a 0% discount for council tax exemption classes A and C, which apply to unoccupied and unfurnished properties, including those requiring or undergoing major repairs.
- Maintaining a 0% council tax discount for empty furnished lets.
- Charging a premium of 100% on the council tax for properties empty and unfurnished for over a year, 200% for over five years, and 300% for over 10 years.
- Charging a 100% premium on second homes, defined as properties that are substantially furnished but not occupied as the main or principal home of any resident.
The measure is intended to discourage property owners from leaving homes vacant for long stretches, thereby increasing the availability of housing for residents. The council hopes the increased cost will motivate owners to either rent out or sell their empty properties.
