Short Term Occupation
With effect from the 1st April 2024, legislation has changed from 6 weeks to 13 weeks in which a property must be occupied before an empty exemption period can be claimed.
If the 13 week occupation rule is being used on a repeated basis; to comply with regulations it must be established that 'beneficial occupation is taking place'. Conversely, it must also be established that after the 13 weeks plus occupation has ceased, that the property has returned to its empty status.
A visiting officer will be sent to confirm occupation and also to confirm vacation.
If the council is not informed within a reasonable timescale, it maybe that the occupation period is charged for a longer time. Awarding an empty status to a property and hence the exemption, could also be delayed.
To notify us of periods of occupation or vacation, please see our certificate of occupation and certificate of vacation forms
Contact us
Tel: 01279 655261 Ext 7223
Write to:
Business Rates Section
East Herts Council
Wallfields
Pegs Lane
Hertford
Herts
SG13 8EQ
