Our advice service helps owners across Scotland access discounts they are entitled to. An owner of a property contacted us because their home had been empty for two years. This meant that VAT could be charged at just 5% for qualifying building repairs and renovation works, which were necessary to bring their property up to standard. Unfortunately, their builder did not recognise the letter provided by the local authority to confirm the length of time the property had been empty. Our Empty Homes Adviser worked with all parties involved and pointed out the relevant legislation to the builder. After receiving reassurance of the evidence requirements the builder started the work to bring the home back into use.