The last few years have seen a rise in short-term rentals, and this has considerably altered the hospitality landscape. However, the rise in short-term rentals has also prompted local councils to implement regulatory measures to ensure safety, maintain community standards, and mitigate the impacts on the housing market. This is where the Short-Term Let licence comes in, though you can also need planning permission. 

A Short-Term Let licence is a legal requirement for landlords, in certain areas of the UK, who want to rent out properties for brief periods and navigating these regulations can be complex. But this is where Yuno comes in.

With Yuno’s expertise, landlords can seamlessly achieve compliance and optimise their rental ventures.

What is a Short Term Let Licence?

A Short-Term Let Licence is an authorisation granted by local authorities, permitting property owners to offer accommodations for short periods, typically less than 30 consecutive days. 

The main goal of this licensing system is to:​

• Ensure Safety: Mandate adherence to health and safety standards in order to protect guests during their stay.​
• Regulate Occupancy: Control the number of occupants to prevent overcrowding and related issues.​
• Preserve Community Integrity: Mitigate potential disturbances in residential areas.​

It is essential to note that Short-Term Let licensing requirements can vary by region. 

Who Needs a Short-Term Let Licence?

The necessity of a Short-Term Let Licence depends on a variety of factors:, including:

• Property Location: Licensing requirements are often location-specific.
• Type of Letting: Different categories of short-term lets, such as home sharing, home letting, or secondary letting, may have distinct licensing requirements. ​
• Exemptions: Certain scenarios can’t be exempt from licensing. For example, accommodations that are the guest’s principal residence or lets to immediate family members may not require a licence. 

Given the different and varied regulations, it’s vital for landlords to consult their local council or professionals in order to understand specific licensing obligations.​

How to Apply for a Short-Term Let Licence

The application process for a Short Term Let Licence generally involves several key steps:​

1. Prepare Necessary Documentation:
   • Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): Validating the property’s energy efficiency.​
   • Gas Safety Certificate: Ensuring all gas appliances meet safety standards.​
   • Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR): Assessing the safety of electrical installations.​
   • Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) Report: Verifying the safety of portable electrical appliances.​
   • Fire Safety Checklist: Confirming compliance with fire safety regulations.​
   • Public Liability Insurance: Typically, a minimum coverage of £2 million is required. ​
2. Submit the Application:
   • Application Form: Complete and submit the form provided by the local council.​
   • Fees: Pay the applicable licensing fee, which varies by council.​
3. Await Approval:
   • Processing Time: The duration for approval can vary; some councils may take several weeks to process applications.​
   • Inspections: Certain councils may conduct property inspections to verify compliance with safety and occupancy standards.​

Given the intricacies of the application process, seeking expert guidance can streamline compliance and reduce potential delays.​

Consequences of Letting Without a Licence

Operating a short-term let without the requisite licence can lead to significant repercussions, including:

• Financial Penalties: Fines can be substantial; therefore, it is essential to comply with the relevant regulations.
• Legal Action: Persistent non-compliance may result in legal proceedings, leading to further fines or restrictions on property usage.​
• Operational Restrictions: Unlicensed properties may be prohibited from accepting bookings or hosting guests until compliance is achieved

To avoid these outcomes, it is essential for landlords to ensure their properties meet all licensing requirements before offering them as short-term lets.​

How Yuno Can Assist in Ensuring Compliance

Navigating the regulatory landscape of Short-Term Lets can be daunting. Yuno specialises in assisting landlords to achieve and maintain compliance through:

• Instant checks and Live monitoring of your portfolio: Identifying which properties require a licence and planning couldn’t be easier with Yuno’s API and platform to support you.
• Eligibility Assessment: Determining if your property requires a licence based on local regulations.​
• Licensing and Planning Application Management: Handling the preparation and submission of all necessary documentation to ensure accuracy and completeness.​
• Compliance Guidance: Providing advice on meeting all regulatory standards, including property improvements and management practices.​
• Compliance Upgrades: Yuno provide access to accredited experts for advice and upgrades where required.

• Expert Advice: Access to professionals with in-depth knowledge of regulations and best practices.​

• Compliance Tracking: Yuno tech tools are used to monitor and manage ongoing compliance obligations.​

By partnering with Yuno, landlords can focus on maximising their rental income while ensuring adherence to all legal obligations.​