Empty Homes Detection Review Frequently Asked Questions
Moray Council is currently conducting a review to ensure that it has accurately identified all Empty Homes. We appreciate that in being part of this review you may have questions.
This page contains some of the most frequently asked questions that can arise from the issue of these reviews.
Why have I received this letter?
We are currently reviewing our Council Tax database to ensure that we have correctly identified all Empty Homes. This is necessary to ensure that we are correctly levying the Council Taxes due on these properties.
How do I complete the review form?
The easiest way to reply to the review is by using the text messaging or online service. Please refer to your letter for instructions on how to do this using your 6-digit unique code.
What happens if I don’t complete the form?
If the form is not returned within 14 days, you will receive a reminder letter.
What happens if the reminder is not completed?
If the reminder letter is not returned within 14 days, we will consider that this property is an empty property and record this on your Council Tax account. You will receive a new council tax bill, showing the amended amount that you have to pay.
I want to complete the paper form and need help
If there is no-one living in the property complete Section A, indicating from the options the way in which the property is being used. Proceed to complete Section C and D if these are applicable to you.
If there is now someone living in the property, complete Section B, providing all the information requested about the person that has moved in.
Finally, sign, print and date the form and return it to the address provided at bottom of your letter.
Why am I being asked to return my information to a Nottingham address?
The address provided on your letter is a secure local government scanning facility based in Nottingham who provide services to many local authorities.
I have already informed the Council of a change in circumstances. Do I need to complete the form?
Yes. Please include all the details of your current situation.
Why have I received a text message after I have completed the form?
To ensure that everyone is paying the correct Council Tax, we occasionally carry out further checks to verify the status of your property after a response is received. To ensure our records are correct, please follow the links included in the 2nd text message and complete the form.
How do I know the texts are from Moray Council?
Any text sent from the council regarding the Empty Homes Detection Review will come from ‘Moray’ and will follow on from the ‘Thank you’ text received once you complete your declaration. You will also only be able to log in with your Council Tax account number and postcode.
What happens if I receive a 2nd text message and I don’t complete the form?
We will assume your situation has changed and will mark your property as being vacant. You will receive a new council tax bill, showing the amended amount that you have to pay.
What should I do if my circumstances are not covered in the examples above?
If you are still unsure how to complete the form, or your circumstances are not covered, please use the online form, and select 'Other' (My circumstances are not covered by the categories above) to write an explanation of your current situation.
Alternatively, please return the paper form to the address at the bottom of your letter, with a covering letter with an explanation of your current situation.