Buying an empty property or second home

You must tell us if you are buying an empty property which will remain unoccupied for some time. Even if you intend to use the property as a second home but also pay council tax on the property you live in.

You will need your 12 digit council tax reference number to apply for the discount. It is on the top left of your bill under the address.

Once you have a fixed completion date for buying the property, tell us within 21 days of the change taking place. This makes sure that you are not charged unnecessary council tax. It also allows us to issue a correct bill for your new address.

Please ensure that the information provided is accurate so we can issue a new bill quickly. You could have to pay more council tax than necessary if the information you provide is:

• false,
• misleading
• or incorrect

You can check below if your property is within the Newcastle City Council area.

Find your local authority

Before you start

Please have the following information at hand before you complete the form:

• Full names of all owners over 18 years old.
• If you are already responsible for council tax in Newcastle it will help to have your council tax reference number to hand
• Full address details of the property you have purchased
• Full address details of the property where you live
• Solicitors and any joint owner’s details if you’re buying or selling the property
• Previous owner's forwarding address if known
• Bank details if you want to set up a Direct Debit to pay your council tax

Advise you have purchased a property

You must tell us of any changes that may affect the amount of council tax you pay within 21 days of the change. Whether this means that you pay more or less council tax.

If you fail to do this the council may impose a penalty of £70.00. If you fail to tell us on more than one occasion we may increase the penalty to £280.00.

Once you have told us the details, we will send you a bill showing the amount owed.