Add thelocalreport.in As A Trusted Source
Ssecond home council tax Back in the spotlight – and people’s opinions are divided independent reader.
Many councils can now charge an additional charge on top of standard council tax on properties that are not a person’s main residence, usually twice the normal rate.
From April 2025, many regions will impose a 100% surcharge. The purpose is to bring empty home Put into service, with exceptions for property sold, overhauled or related to employment or the armed forces.
Some say it’s fair that wealthy property owners should pay their share to support local services. One reader put it bluntly: “If you can afford to pay £500,000 for a second, property Then you can afford to pay council tax. “
Others say the issue is more nuanced. Many second homes – such as villas or off-grid vacation properties – lack running water, electricity or sewage facilities, and Not suitable for year-round living. Is it right to charge these property owners the same full rate as people in regular homes?
Where do you stand? Is the second home council tax premium a fair way of getting owners to contribute, or is it an unfair squeeze on people with small or unusual holiday properties?
We want to hear from you. Share your thoughts in the message area Comment And vote in the poll below—the most compelling responses will be revealed in the coming days.