Council Tax - exemptions, discounts and increases (unoccupied properties)

If a property is unoccupied (normally no one lives in it), there are exemptions and discounts of 10%, 50% or 100% available depending on why it is empty. 

From 1 April 2019 properties that have been continuously unoccupied for 12 months or more may be subject to an empty property surcharge (200% Council Tax charge). 

For more details, click on the category in the related content which best describes the reason for the property being empty.

Water and waste water charges

If you have a septic tank or private water supply, you may be able to have your Water charges reduced.  Please see our Water and waste water page for more details.

Tell us if a Council Tax discount or exemption is to end

If you, or a member of your household is no longer entitled to a discount or exemption on your Council Tax because your circumstances have changed, please tell us by completing our online form.

Tell us about other Council Tax changes

If you need to report a change to the number of people resident in your household, please see our Changes to your household page. 

Provide evidence

If you have been asked to provide evidence to support a Council Tax discount or exemption application, please see our Council Tax evidence page.