Antwerp tax to tackle empty and neglected buildings
The new levy will force building owners to keep their properties maintained and fit for habitation, and improve the appearance and attractiveness of neighbourhoods
Subsidies available
The city council has stressed the importance of dealing with empty and dilapidated buildings since it came together after the last municipal elections. By forcing the owners of buildings to keep them maintained properly, the stock of available housing in the city can be increased, the city said. Subsidies will be available for renovations carried out to commercial premises to convert them into housing.
From this year, the Flemish government’s own tax on run-down buildings ends, with the Antwerp tax replacing it locally. For properties declared unfit for occupation, the tax amounts to €3,500 plus €1,200 for each bedroom. For buildings allowed to become dilapidated in appearance, the tax amounts to €55 per square metre, starting at €2,000. For a building found not to be wind and watertight, the owner must pay €6,000.
“Outward neglect, the creation of slums and unsuitable housing are disturbing, create a feeling of insecurity and have a negative effect on the whole neighbourhood,” said Koen Kennis (photo), councillor in charge of finance. “With our fight against inoccupancy and dilapidation, we hope to make the city more attractive for companies to set up here, and to help residents find more attractive residential properties.”
Photo courtesy N-VA
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