Hundreds of Empty Homes Returning to the Brighton Market

16th March 2026

More than 260 previously empty homes have been brought back into use across Brighton & Hove since April 2025, according to figures released by Brighton & Hove City Council.

The council’s Empty Properties team has been working with homeowners to encourage them to sell, renovate or rent out properties that have been left vacant, helping to increase housing supply in a city where demand remains high.

The update was released during National Empty Homes Week, which highlights the impact long-term vacant properties can have on local housing shortages.

Despite progress, the council estimates that around 968 homes in Brighton & Hove have been empty for more than 12 months, meaning there is still significant potential for additional housing to return to the market.

Higher council tax premiums on long-term empty properties have also played a role in encouraging owners to take action, either by bringing homes back into use or putting them up for sale.

For landlords and investors, the figures highlight the ongoing demand for housing across the city, as well as the continued focus from local authorities on maximising the use of existing housing stock.