What is a Void Property?

A void property is a residential or commercial building that is currently unoccupied and not generating an income for its owner, often a local authority, housing association, or private landlord. The term is most commonly used in the context of social or private rented housing where a tenancy has ended and the property is awaiting refurbishment or new occupants. The time between tenancies is known as the “void period.” A property is not considered ‘void’ if it is under construction or simply for sale.

In the UK, void properties are a critical issue for housing providers. For social landlords, reducing the void period is a key performance indicator. The longer a property remains void, the greater the loss of rental income and the higher the risk of deterioration, vandalism, and anti-social behaviour. The refurbishment of void properties often involves significant work to meet modern housing standards and comply with the latest Building Regulations. This is where ventilation becomes a crucial consideration.

When a property is empty, it’s particularly susceptible to moisture-related issues such as condensation and mould. Without daily occupation and heating, ambient humidity levels can rise, leading to condensation on cold surfaces. Therefore, effective ventilation is essential during the refurbishment process to prevent long-term issues.