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

If you own a home that has been empty for a long time, we can help you look at ways to bring it back into use. You might want to sell it, rent it out, or get help if the property is in poor condition. This page explains your options and tells you what you can do next.

Selling your property

Citizens Advice Scotland can provide free, practical advice on how to sell your property. This includes information on Home Reports, Energy Performance Certificates and using a solicitor.

The Scottish Empty Homes Partnership provides specialist guidance for people who own empty homes and want to sell.

Renting your property

If you decide to rent, you must follow the law. All private landlords in Scotland must register on the national Register of Landlords.

The Landlord Accreditation Scotland (LAS) offers training and advice on your rights and responsibilities as a landlord. They can also help find an accredited letting agent if you want someone to manage the property for you.

The Scottish Association of Landlords (SAL) offers information and advice on the Scottish private rented sector.

Empty homes - serious disrepair

If your empty property is in very poor condition, we may be able to help. South Lanarkshire Council operates a HomeImprove Service, which offers advice and support to owners whose homes need significant repairs.

To report an empty home, please go to our Empty Homes page.

Property purchase by the council

We can only buy a small number of homes each year. These are usually former council properties in areas where there is high demand for housing. Homes must meet specific size, and location needs to be considered.

More information on buy back of properties is available on our Market Purchase Scheme page.