PROPERTIES in Inverclyde are lying empty for long periods of time because owners find it hard to let them go and are scared of becoming landlords.

A new report has revealed the top reasons why so many privately-owned properties in the area are vacant for months and even years on end.

The study by the Scottish Empty Homes Partnership (SEHP) – which is run by charity Shelter Scotland and funded by the Scottish Government – found that owners fear becoming a landlord and the responsibilities it brings while others lack motivation or know-how to start letting and are worried about insurance needed to cover the cost of repairing a damaged home.

The organisation also discovered that many had an emotional attachment to their empty homes and found it hard to let go of them – sometimes for decades on end – because they had grown up there.

The data was compiled from calls made during the first year of the SEHP free empty homes helpline, which offers advice and support to bring properties back into use to benefit owners and communities.

Many said they are simply waiting for property prices to rise in order to sell.

Kristen Hubert, from the SEHP, said: “One year on from the launch of the empty homes helpline, we have helped owners in Inverclyde to start the process of bringing their properties back into use, either for themselves or others in need of a home.

“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, we are here to help find solutions. While 27,000 long term empty homes lay empty across Scotland there are 150,000 families and individuals on waiting lists for a home.

“Making use of the existing housing stock makes both social and economic sense and whilst empty homes alone won’t solve Scotland’s housing crisis, they can be part of the solution.”

To report an empty home call 0344 515 1941.