Empty Property Relief – Scottish Borders Council (2024)

Empty property relief was devolved to Local Authorities from 1 April 2023 which means reliefs and exemptions will no longer be legislative. This gives Local Authorities the decision on when to award relief on empty properties.

A new policy was approved on 25 January 2024 and from 1 April 2024:

• we can grant 50%relief of rates for a maximum of threemonths to business properties which are empty
• when properties remain empty longer than threemonths, 10%relief will be awarded for 9 months
• no relief will be awarded following this 12 month period and 100% rates will be charged
• 100% relief will be awarded indefinitely where the person entitled to possession of a property is a trustee for sequestration or liquidation; or the property is prohibited by law from occupation.

What help is available?

If you are an owner of a vacant business premises there are options and support available to bring the property back in to use. Information in relation to renovating your property in to residential accommodationas well asbusiness advice and support can be foundon our website.

You can also seek adviceon opening your business from Business Gateway Local Support and South of Scotland Enterprise

If you have any difficulty paying your instalments, you can contact Customer Advice and Support Serviceto discuss your payment options.

Apply for a reduction

You can applyonline.If you need any assistance, contact our Customer Advice and Support Service.

How do I notify you of potential business rates fraud?

You can report this online. If you need any assistance, contact ourCustomer Advice and Support Service.

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