While it is the homeowner’s responsibility to maintain their property and to keep it in good order, there are many reasons why properties can become empty for long periods of time.

Housing is in high demand, so bringing empty homes back into use contributes towards increasing the supply of housing, helping people to find a suitable home to live in.

The council has a dedicated officer who can provide practical support and guidance to help homeowners consider the range of options available to bring empty properties back into use.

Options can include renting the property out, renovating the property for sale or, where an owner does not have the finances to carry out remedial work themselves, selling at auction. Every case is different, and the advice given is tailored to the homeowner’s particular circumstances.

As well as working with homeowners, the officer can also provide support and advice to neighbours who are affected by empty homes.

If you are concerned about an empty property in your area, you can report it to the service by completing
the online form on the council website at www.southlanarkshire.gov.uk, where you can also find information on the help and support available to homeowners with empty homes.