Are There Rules for Short Term Holiday Lets?

What Are The Rules for Short Term Holiday Lets?

Letting your home for short term holiday lets is becoming increasingly popular. With staycations on the rise in the UK this year, there are lots of people looking for somewhere to take a holiday in a different part of the country. In fact, according to travel marketing group, Sojern, UK staycation searches and bookings are up by almost a quarter from 2016.

But is it as easy as simply opening up your home for holidaymakers, or are there rules? We have done the research for you and give an overview here.

Rules for UK Short Term Holiday Lets

1. If you want to sub-let, check that your lease allows you to
2. Talk to your local authority, as some restrict lets to a minimum of 6 months
3. All your upholstered furniture and furnishings must comply with all the legal fire resistance requirements. In addition, furniture must display the correct safety labels
4. Ensure that all appliances are safe to use
5. You must have a fully working fire alarm, fire-fighting equipment and a well-lit, safe escape route
6. Check your house for potential hazards and make repairs where necessary
7. Carry out safety checks on gas, water, and electricity
8. The property should be fully furnished including items such as towels, linen and kitchen utensils
9. You are responsible for all household utility bills
10. Let your insurance company know that you intend to short term let your house. If you fail to do this and you need to make a claim due to a guest’s mishap, you might find that your policy is invalid. You should also cover yourself for the potential to be sued by a guest

You might plan to let your holiday home whilst you are not using it or even your own home when you go away on holiday yourself. Either way, there is income to be made. Short term lets are more profitable than long term lets, so why not make money from your property when it is empty.

If you are interested in letting your house for holidaymakers, but need some advice or want to know about the management services we offer, please get in touch with us today.