Will the Minister confirm whether a business support scheme is in place, or planned, to give residential landlords a 'holiday' from paying council tax on vacant properties they are unable to re-let during the coronavirus lockdown because the properties cannot be viewed and the letting agents are working from home?
There are a range of statutory exemptions from council tax for empty properties, depending on the circumstances. Local authorities in Wales also have discretionary powers to provide discounts or agree alternative payment plans and I am aware that some authorities have applied a deferral of initial payments of council tax for some residents as a result of the Coronavirus outbreak. Any tenant or landlord experiencing difficulties with their council tax should contact their local authority to discuss their circumstances and determine whether they might be eligible.
In responding to the outbreak, our immediate priority has been to provide support for tenants. We have published guidance for tenants: