LBBD Empty Property Policy
Barking and Dagenham Council has approved a new Empty Property Policy to tackle the borough's 410 vacant homes.
Barking and Dagenham Council's Cabinet approved a new Empty Property Policy on 13 October 2026, introducing increased council tax premiums for long-term vacant properties and second homes. This policy aims to tackle the 410 empty homes across the borough through a robust framework for identification and enforcement.
The revised policy seeks to bring long-term vacant properties back into residential use, a goal highlighted by Councillor Syed Ghani, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Enforcement. A report to the Cabinet noted the number of empty properties rose from 202 in 2015 to 410 in 2025.
Key facts
- Barking and Dagenham Council approved a new Empty Property Policy on 13 October 2026. Source
- The policy introduces increased council tax premiums for long-term vacant properties and second homes. Source
- There are 410 empty homes across Barking and Dagenham. Source
- Empty properties in the borough rose from 202 in 2015 to 410 in 2025. Source
About this summary
This summary was written automatically from our published stories and the council meeting records they draw on. It describes what councils have discussed and decided; it does not take a view on any decision. Each key fact links to the story it comes from. Updated 14 October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Email community@opencouncil.network.