Empty homes remain a priority issue for many local authorities in the UK. Whether you have purchased an empty property through a council-backed scheme, inherited a home that has been unoccupied for years, or found a renovation opportunity, decorating and refurbishing it on a budget is entirely possible with careful planning.
How many empty homes are there in the UK?
According to Action on Empty Homes, there were 303,143 long-term empty homes in England as of October 2024 – the highest level since 2011 (not including during the pandemic).
Local authority grants and loans to renovate empty homes
Many UK councils offer empty homes grants, loans, and VAT incentives to encourage owners to bring unused properties back into occupation.
Support may include renovation grants, low-interest loans, VAT reductions for long-term empty homes, and energy-efficiency funding.
What is available – if anything – does vary from council to council, so check with your local authority.
Refurbishing and decorating an empty property on a budget
Before starting any work, contact your buildings insurer. Standard property insurance policies often exclude properties left empty for more than 30–45 consecutive days and usually do not cover renovation risks.
Depending on the scale of your project, you may need unoccupied property insurance, or renovation insurance. For guidance, see: https://www.cover4letproperty.co.uk/unoccupied-property-insurance/
Plan your budget carefully and prioritise essential repairs such as electrics, gas safety, roofing, heating, damp treatment, and structural work to create a safe foundation for the rest of the refurbishment.
Save money with DIY and smart sourcing
DIY tasks such as painting, sanding, refreshing furniture, and basic repairs can significantly reduce costs. Borrow or rent tools, buy second-hand items, and repair existing features where possible to keep costs down.
Renovate to let: improving kerb appeal on a budget
If you are refurbishing the property to let, focus on neutral, durable, and low-maintenance finishes. Cost-effective improvements include feature walls, replacing cupboard handles, upgrading lighting, refinishing floors, and purchasing second-hand furniture that meets fire safety standards.
Fire safety guidance: https://www.firesafe.org.uk/furniture-and-furnishings-fire-safety-regulations/
Recycling, reusing and sustainability
Apps such as Gumtree, and Facebook Marketplace may make it easy to source affordable or free furniture and materials. Upcycling tutorials on YouTube and DIY forums can help transform low-cost items into stylish, functional pieces.
Final thoughts
Renovating an empty home on a budget is achievable with careful planning, awareness of available grants, VAT relief, and smart sourcing. Whether the property is intended for letting, resale, or personal use, cost-effective decorating strategies can significantly reduce overall spend.
Ensure all major works are completed by qualified professionals and check that you have appropriate insurance in place while the property is unoccupied or under renovation.
Need help with empty property insurance?
If you need guidance on arranging suitable protection for an empty or property undergoing works, our team at Cover4LetProperty is here to help. Please call us on 01702 606 301 or support and quotations tailored to your needs.
