A “vacancy allowance” is given in the form of refunds on assessment taxes for vacant and unoccupied buildings, it said.

“There are many premises, both residential and commercial properties, that have not been rented out for a long time.

“In accordance with existing acts, DBKL would like to inform (the public) that there is an incentive that can be used, called the ‘vacancy allowance’,” it said in a statement.

Among the conditions, under Section 162 (Refund on unoccupied buildings), are that the premise had been available for rent during the whole period for which the refund is claimed and that it must be in good condition and fit for occupancy, with reasonable efforts having been made to obtain a tenant.

DBKL said there were 646,061 properties in Kuala Lumpur on which assessment tax had been collected in 2020, with 529,770 (82%) being residential premises and 116,291 (18%) commercial.

Applications for the vacancy allowance can be made at DBKL’s headquarters or by downloading the form on its website.

DBKL’s finance department will conduct a site visit before any decision is made on providing allowance to the owners.