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Written question asked by David Simmonds (Conservative) on Tuesday, 20 October 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 22 October 2026. It was answered by Matthew Pennycook (Labour) on Wednesday, 28 October 2026 on behalf of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Empty Dwelling Management Orders

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, further to the written statement of 13 October 2026, HCSWS363, on Improving housing availability and affordability, whether local housing authorities obtaining an Empty Dwelling Management Order from a Residential Property Tribunal include the right to possession of the furniture of that dwelling.

Answer

The reforms to Empty Dwelling Management Orders (EDMO) announced on 27 September 2026 have not changed the rules on possession of furniture.

As set out in paragraph 20 of Schedule 7 to the Housing Act 2004, the local authority will have the right to possession of the furniture of that dwelling for the duration of the order beginning on the date that the EDMO comes into effect. The homeowner will have the ability to remove their furniture before the order comes into effect. If the homeowner wants to take possession of any items of furniture after an EDMO has come into force the local authority must comply with the request as long as the dwelling has not already become occupied.

While the EDMO is in effect, should the local authority renounce its right to the possession of the furniture they must make appropriate arrangements for its storage at their own cost.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
36656
Session
2026-27
Related items
Improving housing availability and affordability
Monday, 12 October 2026
Written statements
House of Commons
Subjects
Empty property Furniture Tribunals Empty dwelling management orders
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk