Seeking Advice: 5% VAT Reduction and Starting Renovation Quickly

[onix]

Hi all, we bought a house in March last year that needs full renovation and hasn't been lived in for 3 years. Our flat sale fell through, so we don’t have full funds for the renovation. We want a loft conversion and side kitchen extension under permitted development. With just under 2 months left to access the 5% VAT reduction scheme, we have three builder quotes but no plans or party wall agreement yet. The council took 4 months to provide evidence of the 2+ years of non-occupancy—could this delay help extend the timeline for the VAT reduction?

Also, can we start works sooner using a building notice to the council and having both neighbors agree to start work earlier under the Party Wall Act?
Thank you!

Hi Op. You are the first person in my 4ish years on MN to also be aware of the 5% empty homes scheme!!! OMG! I post about it ALL the time! I did actually find out about it on here initially- for which I'm truly grateful for. DH and I renovated a derelict property and went through SO many hoops and companies to show it was a legit scheme- just one which no one knew about! I had no idea the scheme was finishing soon. Bonkers, considering how many empty/unlivable homes there are!

I'm afraid I can't answer your questions though about extensions/starting works earlier etc. Have you asked the council to extend the date? I doubt this will make any difference if its a national closure of the scheme. Sorry I can't help, happy to answer any questions though and a hopeful bump to someone who can help you.

Can I ask why you think this scheme is ending? From the government website it seems you can still apply to reduce rate the vat on an empty house so what deadline are you referring to? Thanks 😊