Investor brands Labour homes plan “a PR stunt”
Summary
The article reports criticism of Labour’s proposed changes to Empty Dwelling Management Orders, which would allow councils to intervene in empty homes after six months rather than two years. A property investor argues the policy is unlikely to work without funding for substantial repairs, particularly where homes are uninhabitable, and suggests grants may be a more practical approach.
Why it matters
The proposal could affect how local authorities, owners and investors deal with long-term empty properties, including the condition assessments and repair costs that often determine whether homes can be returned to use. Surveyors may see increased demand for inspections, defect reporting and viability advice on vacant or derelict stock.
Key points
- Labour plans to strengthen councils’ powers over empty and derelict homes.
- EDMOs could be triggered after six months of vacancy instead of two years.
- The article argues many empty homes may need major repair before they are habitable.
- Funding constraints on local authorities are highlighted as a key obstacle.
- A grant-based approach is suggested as an alternative to council takeover.
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