Labour has announced proposals that could grant councils increased powers over privately owned homes. Housing Secretary Angela Rayner and Andy Burnham have both spoken about these potential changes.
Under the proposals, councils could be empowered to take over properties that have been empty for six months. Additionally, landlords renting out 'worst quality' properties could be warned to improve conditions, with councils having the power to compulsorily purchase these homes if landlords do not comply. Labour's website states this is intended to bring more homes into council ownership.
The proposed Empty Dwelling Management Order (EDMO) changes would reduce the vacancy threshold from two years to six months and remove certain evidential requirements. Tribunal approval would still be required, and an EDMO currently transfers management rather than ownership. Existing exemptions include properties genuinely marketed for sale or letting and certain probate cases.