Empty Dwelling Management Orders

Information on Empty Dwelling Management Orders

Empty Dwelling Management Orders (EDMO’s) became law in November 2004.

EDMO’s comprise of a two-stage approach, Interim and Final Management Orders. Local authorities will have to apply to a Residential Property Tribunal for an Interim Management Order to be granted. This will last up to 12 months and will give local authorities most of the management powers previously held by the owner. At this stage the local authority will not have the power to let the property, however it will take away the owner's power over the property and will focus everybody’s mind on finding an agreed solution to the problem. If a solution is agreed at this stage with the owner, the local authority can revoke the Interim Management Order and return the property to the owner.

If an agreed solution is not found, then the local authority can revoke the Interim Management Order and serve a Final Management Order. This can last up to seven years and gives the local authority (in partnership with a housing association) the power to let out the property and receive rent without the owner's consent.

During this time the local authority can carry out repairs and renovation works necessary on the property and recover their costs from the rental income. If the local authority recovers all of its costs and there is any excess rent, this must be paid to the owner of the property.

EDMO’s are the first legislation aimed specifically at tackling empty homes. It would only be used as a last resort, however it is another useful tool available to Empty Homes Officers.

Date Updated: 01/11/11