How to report an empty home
Provide as much information as possible about the property and include a precise address. This information will help us work out what action is needed.
Why empty homes are a problem
Empty homes can cause problems for nearby residents and the wider community. They can be a magnet for:
- anti-social behaviour
- crime
- vandalism
- arson
- fly-tipping
They could instead be used to help meet local housing needs.
See where empty homes are in your area
You can view an interactive map of long‑term empty homes across Dumfries and Galloway.
The map shows:
- where empty homes have been identified (empty for 6 months or more)
- summary information about empty properties across the region
How much it costs to leave a home empty
An empty home also costs money to you the owner and to the community. You'll have to pay for things like:
- insurance
- security costs
- maintenance costs
- Council Tax
- utility bills
It is estimated that an empty property can cost owners on average £7,000 a year in lost rent and Council Tax.