Prime minister David Cameron has vowed to help landlords and retailers repair the damage caused by riots.
Speaking at the House of Lords, Cameron announced a series of measures to help England recover from severe property damage.
A £10m recovery scheme will be set up for councils to make buildings safe and clean, while £20m will be invested in helping high street stores to recover from damage.
In addition, affected businesses and homeowners can seek compensation under the Riots Damages Act 1886, even if uninsured. The time for applying for compensation will increase to 42 days from the existing 14.
The government has also pledged to make planning permission for fixing properties an easier and faster process than normal.
Businesses affected by looting will also be given some leeway on tax payments.
Cameron said: “Too many shops have been vandalised. We will compensate you if you have had a high level of property damage. We are on your side.”
The measures are in response to scores of stores falling victim to looting and property vandalism over four-day riots across London and other regional cities, beginning on Saturday 6 August.
joanna.bourke@estatesgazette.com
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