A threat to double council tax on empty homes has paid off, with more than 1,000 houses now in use.
In October 2013 Fife Council made the decision to charge owners of empty properties which had lain vacant for more than a year 200% the going council tax rate.
This meant they were facing a 110% rise in council tax from April 2014.
Changes brought in by the Scottish Government helped local authorities to decrease discounts and increase some charges for empty properties.
At that time empty houses received a 90% charge but the new powers allowed Fife Council to charge up to a maximum of 200%.
The council also has the power to impose a £500 penalty against owners who fail to provide information or report a change of circumstances or who provide them with false information.
It was hoped that the changes would encourage owners to rent out or sell their properties, providing more accommodation for people.
It was estimated the move would impact on around 1,200 houses around Fife.
If all were confirmed as long-term empties it could have brought in an additional £1.1 million in council taxes.
And the first year of the charge being levied has seen more than 1,000 houses being brought back into use.
This includes 669 properties where works have been completed and the property has been let or sold.
It also includes 176 houses where the work has been finished and the building is now the owner’s main residence.
And a further 261 buildings have had the work needed on them completed and are now being advertised for sale or let.
Gavin Yates, Fife Council’s executive spokesman for community health and wellbeing, said: “It is very encouraging that so many owners have taken steps to bring their empty properties back into use.”
He said the local authority wanted to encourage any owners of properties who are being charged the additional level to contact them if they want further help.
Homeowners should contact the council’s empty homes team, who can provide support and guidance.
The team can be contacted by emailing emptyhomes@fife.gov.uk.