Empty Property Policy
Barking and Dagenham Council has approved a new policy to address empty homes by increasing council tax premiums.
Barking and Dagenham Council 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 identified across the borough, establishing a stronger framework for their identification and enforcement. Councillor Syed Ghani, Cabinet Member for Community Safety and Enforcement, presented the policy for approval.
The council's Cabinet discussed and recommended the policy's approval, noting a significant rise in empty properties from 202 in 2015 to 410 in 2025. The new policy, which includes a robust framework for identification and enforcement, is designed to address this increase in vacant homes within the borough.
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 in Barking and Dagenham as of 2025. Source
- Empty properties in the borough increased from 202 in 2015 to 410 in 2025. Source
- Councillor Syed Ghani presented the policy to the Cabinet. 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.