Unoccupied properties prohibited by law

A property that is unoccupied is exempt from council tax if:

• the property owner has been served with a prohibition order. This prevents them from living in it
• the property is subject to a compulsory purchase order
• the property is unoccupied due to planning conditions

This means you do not have to pay council tax for the property. The property does not need to be unfurnished.

1. log in to your MyGuildford account (opens new window)
2. click the 'council tax and benefits' tile
3. select 'continue' on the 'view other services' page
4. select 'council tax' on the 'your services' page
5. on your account summary page, find the list of quick links

• if you're using a computer or laptop these will be on the right-hand side of the screen
• if you're using a mobile device, click 'quick links'

6. in the list of quick links find 'apply for or cancel an exemption'
7. fill in the form. You'll need to:

• tell us the date the property became unoccupied
• upload an image of a legal letter or court judgement that confirms that the property cannot be occupied

What happens next?

We'll contact you if we need further information. If you are entitled to a exemption, we'll send you a new bill.

You'll no longer qualify for the exemption if:

• the prohibition order is lifted and someone moves into the property

You can tell us about a change online through your MyGuildford account. 

You'll need to:

1. log in to your MyGuildford account (opens new window)
2. click the 'council tax and benefits' tile
3. select 'continue' on the 'view other services' page
4. select 'council tax' on the 'your services' page
5. on your account summary page, find the list of quick links

• if you're using a computer or laptop these will be on the right-hand side of the screen
• if you're using a mobile device, click 'quick links'

6. in the list of quick links find 'apply for or cancel an exemption' link. 
7. follow the steps on the form. We'll need to know the date of the change.

What happens next?

We'll update your council tax account and issue you with a new bill.