A council says it wants private landlords to lease their properties as part of a campaign to cut the number of empty properties.

Carmarthenshire authority on behalf of Welsh Government operates the Leasing Scheme Wales exercise, which “provides landlords and owners of empty homes the opportunity to lease their property the Council for between five and 20 years.’

Councillors claim the benefits for property owners include guaranteed and regular income with no arrears or rental voids; variable lease terms of up to 20 years; full management of the property handled by the authority; maintenance of the property undertaken and paid for; and funding to bring properties up to agreed standards with properties possibly eligible for a grant of £5,000 to £25,000>

A council run lettings agency – Simple Lettings – will handle the leasing without management or admin fees and as part of what the council calls “the platinum package” property owners will receive a tenant finding service; guaranteed rental income which includes void periods; all day-to-day repair and maintenance costs covered; free landlord gas safety certificate, 24/7 central heating and plumbing cover, free electrical testing and inspection report, and a free EPC; a digital inventory; damage waiver guarantee; and with no need to be licensed with Rent Smart Wales.

A council spokesperson says: “There are many options available to owners of empty properties and our team of advisors are here to help identify the most appropriate support available, depending on the circumstances. The Empty Properties Team can also provide advice to owners of Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO) on housing and safety standards, HMO management regulation and Rent Smart Wales.”