Warwick District Council approves council tax premium on second homes
Councillors say the measure aims to boost housing availability and support local communities
Warwick District Councillors have approved plans to introduce a 100% Council Tax premium on second homes, following a Full Council meeting held on Wednesday 25 March.
The new charge will come into effect from 1 April 2027 and will apply to properties that are furnished but not used as a main residence.
The decision follows a public consultation carried out between December 2025 and January 2026, as well as an impact assessment.
The policy is enabled by government legislation introduced in 2023, which allows local authorities in England to apply additional charges on second homes.
Councillors say the aim is to encourage property owners to bring these homes back into full-time use.
A total of 502 responses were received during the consultation, with 65.5% of respondents supporting the proposal.
Many highlighted the potential benefits for the local housing market and wider community.
Councillor Jonathan Chilvers, Portfolio Holder for Resources, said: “We know how important it is for residents to be able to access affordable homes in the communities where they live and work.”
He added: “Introducing a second homes premium is one of the tools available to us to help bring more properties back into full-time use, helping to support local businesses and services.”