Current status and issues of vacant house measures in Fukushima

Abstract

This study clarifies current status and issues of measures for vacant houses based on Vacant Houses Special Measures Act in Fukushima. This study shows that (1) the number of vacant houses is increasing so rapidly and 90% of the municipalities face with problems concerning vacant houses, (2) 90% of municipalities have proceeded with measures for vacant houses, (3) a number of municipalities are planning or are going to plan measures for vacant houses based on the Act, and (4) advanced municipalities have not been able to proceed with measures for vacant houses because of the financial constraints. This study points out that it is necessary to consider location of vacant houses to implement measures for vacant houses effectively.