Owners of empty homes could face jail under Islington council plans

Property owners who leave “buy to leave” homes empty to cash in on rising prices will face court action that could lead to imprisonment under tough new proposals from a north London council.

The proposals from Islington are the toughest measures yet aimed at investors who buy up apartments in new luxury developments and leave them unoccupied.

The scheme would involve seeking a commitment from buyers that their new homes will be lived in as a condition of planning permission.

If the council suspects that the property is unoccupied for more than three months it could ask for proof of residence such as up to date utility bills or evidence of deliveries.

If that is not forthcoming, the council would have to power to seek a court injunction forcing the owner to occupy it or find tenants. If the injunction is breached the owner would face heavy fines or even a jail sentence.

Cllr James Murray, the council’s executive member for housing said: ”Our new proposals would make sure that all new homes in Islington are occupied - we want to send a message that ‘buy to leave’ is unacceptable.”