The service has been set up by the Scottish Empty Homes Partnership, which is run by housing charity Shelter Scotland and funded by the Scottish Government,
Kristen Hubert, of the Partnership, said: “We encourage people to call the helpline if they know of a long-term empty home in their area, or if they’re in fact the owner of an empty property. The helpline is manned by expert staff who will discuss all the options available to help transform empty houses back into homes again.
“Whatever the reason for an empty home – whether it’s because the owner has sentimental attachment to it or they simply don’t have the finances to carry out repair work, help is available. Bringing empty homes back into use has many benefits and whilst this alone won’t solve Scotland’s housing crisis, it can be part of the solution.”
There is also a free matchmaker service to make it easier for potential buyers of empty homes to pinpoint empty properties whose owners are willing to sell.
To report an empty home, get advice if you are the owner of an empty home or register interest in buying empty properties, call 0344 515 1941.
