Most councils in Wales have now introduced higher council tax rates for owners of empty or second homes. It comes after years of complaints that increased empty and second homes are forcing young people out of their home areas and leading to over-tourism.
Last week Monmouthshire County Council became the latest local authority to clamp down on second homes. At a full council meeting on March 9 councillors voted to introduce a 100% council tax premium for properties left empty for one year, rising to 300% for homes left vacant for three years or more.
The changes mirror similar changes already introduced in other areas with high levels of second homes including in Cardiff, Bridgend Conwy, Gwynedd in Merthyr Tydfil. Last year Welsh Government announced changes to planning, taxation and plans for a new licensing scheme for holiday lets in Wales in response to rising concerns over the issue. Only four councils out of 22 in Wales - Blaenau Gwent, Caerphilly, Newport and Torfaen - don't have any premiums for second or empty homes.
