To address Vancouver’s housing crisis, we have implemented an annual tax on empty or under-utilized residential properties called the Empty Homes Tax.
Every owner of residential property in Vancouver is required to submit a property status declaration each year to determine if their property is subject to the tax.
Properties deemed empty will be subject to a tax of 1% of the property’s assessed taxable value.
Most homes will not be subject to the tax, as it does not apply to principal residences or homes rented for at least six months of the year; however all homeowners are required to submit a declaration.
Net revenues from the Empty Homes Tax will be reinvested into affordable housing initiatives.
The Empty Homes Tax is also known as the Vacancy Tax and is imposed under the Vacancy Tax By-law No. 11674.
Here is the link to guide you through the steps: https://youtu.be/8WlYb18lf0U