As an Airbnb host in Canterbury, it’s essential to stay compliant with both local and national regulations. These laws are in place to ensure guest safety and to protect the local community. Here’s a breakdown of the key regulations you need to follow in 2024, and how Koala Rentals can assist you with meeting all legal requirements.
1. National Short-Term Let Registration Scheme: What to Expect
The UK government is currently consulting on the introduction of a National Short-Term Let Registration Scheme. This scheme will likely require property owners to register their Airbnb or holiday let with local authorities. Although the final details are yet to be confirmed, it is expected to come into force later in 2024.
See the government’s latest guidance here
Stay ahead of the curve: Our team at Koala Rentals will help you navigate the registration process once it’s introduced. Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest updates and ensure your property remains compliant.
2. Fire Risk Assessment: A Legal Obligation
As of October 2023, Airbnb hosts must conduct a thorough fire risk assessment. This includes identifying fire hazards, installing smoke alarms and fire extinguishers, ensuring clear escape routes, and providing guests with safety information. The assessment must be reviewed annually.
See the government guidance here.
Koala Rentals works with fire safety professionals who can carry out your fire risk assessment, ensuring your property meets legal requirements and protects your guests.
3. Gas Safety Certificate
If your property has gas appliances, you’re legally required to obtain an annual Gas Safety Certificate. A registered Gas Safe engineer must inspect your appliances and installations to ensure they meet safety standards.
We can arrange for qualified engineers to perform these checks, giving you peace of mind and ensuring compliance. Just contact us.
4. Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)
An EICR is required every five years to verify the safety of your property’s electrical systems. This report must be completed by a certified electrician.
Koala Rentals partners with Canterbury-based electricians who can carry out your EICR and make sure your property is safe for your guests.
5. Portable Appliance Testing (PAT): Recommended
Although PAT testing is not a legal obligation, it’s highly recommended. Regular testing of portable appliances, like kettles and toasters, ensures they are safe to use.
We work with professionals who can conduct PAT testing for your property, helping to reduce the risk of electrical hazards. To make it cheaper, we can bundle the EICR, PAT Testing, and Fire Alarm testing all together.
6. Planning Permission for Short-Term Lets
Currently, planning permission is not required if you rent out your property on Airbnb in Canterbury and the surrounding areas in Kent. However, the government is considering changes that may require planning permission for longer lets or in high-demand areas like Canterbury. Stay informed, as these regulations may change early in 2025.
The consensus currently is that any property operating as a Furnished Holiday Let will be grandfathered into any new planning class that may be created. The eligibility criteria for deciding if a property is a Furnished Holiday Let is likely to be whether it is on business rates.
Our team will guide you through any planning requirements should the laws change, ensuring that your property remains compliant.
Conclusion: Stay Compliant with Koala Rentals
Keeping up with regulations can be challenging, but Koala Rentals is here to help. We work with certified professionals to ensure your property is compliant with all legal requirements, from fire risk assessments and gas safety certificates to EICRs and PAT testing. Contact us today and let us handle the compliance while you focus on providing a great experience for your guests.
Subscribe to our newsletter to receive updates on the National Short-Term Let Registration Scheme and other key regulatory changes that could affect your property.
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