When we take action on empty properties

The councils no longer have a dedicated resource to deal with long term empty properties as they make up such a small percentage of the properties in our area, see:

• Empty property FAQs

The councils are, instead, prioritising improving housing standards in occupied properties, especially in the private rented sector. As such, it is unlikely that any action will be taken simply because the property is empty.

The councils will take action in respect of properties that are:

Seriously detrimental to the amenity of the area: where the appearance of the property, including a garden that is visible from the street, seriously affects the street scene (makes the area look significantly worse), then you can report this to the Planning Enforcement team:

• planning.enforcement@adur-worthing.gov.uk

Prejudicial to public health or a statutory nuisance: if you are aware that land, including a garden, is harbouring vermin such as rats or mice, then you can report this to Public Health & Regulation. Please note that foxes and squirrels are not vermin.

• see also: overgrown gardens and vermin
• publichealth.regulation@adur-worthing.gov.uk

If you are aware that there are vermin such as rats or mice inside a property, you can report this to Private Sector Housing. Please note that foxes and squirrels are not vermin.

• private.sectorhousing@adur-worthing.gov.uk
• see also: advice about foxes and squirrels

See also:

• Council Tax charges for empty or unfurnished properties

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