February 25th 2024.
Summer is fast approaching, and with it comes the possibility of new rules that could impact your favorite staycation spot. It seems that the UK government is proposing new legislation that could change the way we know and use Airbnbs. This could be bad news for those who rely on these short-term rentals for holidays and getaways.
Under the proposed legislation, homeowners would need to seek planning permission if they plan on renting out their property for more than 90 days a year as a holiday let. This means that they would need to get permission from their local authority in order to continue using their property as a short-term rental. Without this permission, they may have to give up their Airbnb dreams.
Existing short-term lets will automatically be reclassified under this new legislation and will not require an additional planning application. However, local authorities will have more power to revoke permissions and require full planning permission if they deem it necessary.
The government also plans to introduce associated permitted development rights, which would allow for a property to be converted from a short-term let to a standard residential dwelling, and vice versa. A national register would also be created to help local councils keep track of all the short-term lets in their areas. It's important to note that this rule will not apply to B&Bs, hotels, and hostels.
The aim of these changes is to address the current housing crisis and prevent the "hollowing out" of local communities. The government hopes that by giving local authorities more control, they can strike a balance between protecting the visitor economy and providing affordable housing for residents. There are also hopes that these changes will address issues of anti-social behavior.
Michael Gove, the levelling up secretary, stated that short-term lets play a vital role in the UK's tourism economy. However, in some areas, local families and young people feel they are being shut out of the housing market. The government's goal is to deliver more homes in the right places and give communities the power to decide.
Amanda Cupples, general manager for Northern Europe at Airbnb, also welcomed the introduction of a short-term lets register, stating that it is good news for everyone involved. It will provide clear rules for hosts and give local authorities the necessary information to manage any potential housing impacts.
Further details of these new measures will be outlined in the government's response to consultations, with the changes set to be introduced this summer. What are your thoughts on these new Airbnb rules? We'd love to hear from you.
According to the BBC, holiday lets in England alone have risen by 40% between 2018 and 2021. London, in particular, has seen a significant increase in Airbnb listings, with over 80,000 properties listed in 2019. More than half of these listings were entire homes.
Adam Hug, the leader of Westminster council, has long been campaigning for changes like these, as his borough has become overrun with short-term lets. He recently shared that there are over 12,000 short-term lets in Westminster, which is more than any other area in the country. He also added that these lets have had a negative impact on residents, causing noisy parties and increased amounts of rubbish.
Other areas that have been heavily affected by short-term lets include Cornwall, with the leader of Cornwall Council, Linda Taylor, also welcoming the proposed changes.
Do you have a story to share about your experiences with short-term lets? We'd love to hear from you. Get in touch by emailing us.
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