New Airbnb Licensing Rules in Brighton and Hove: Essential Information for Holiday Let Landlords in 2024
- Emma Oglethorpe
- Jul 10, 2024
- 3 min read
As Brighton and Hove continue to be popular destinations for tourists, the city council has introduced new licensing rules for short-term holiday lets, including properties listed on platforms like Airbnb. These regulations, effective in 2024, aim to ensure safety, manage housing availability, and address community concerns. Here's a comprehensive guide for landlords who wish to let out their properties as holiday lets in Brighton and Hove.
History and Implementation of Licensing Rules
The initiative to regulate short-term holiday lets in Brighton and Hove has been in the works for several years. While discussions and proposals were ongoing, significant regulatory steps have been progressively introduced to address the rise in holiday lets and their impact on the local housing market. The new regulations are part of a broader effort to bring holiday lets in line with the standards expected of long-term rental accommodations (https://www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/planning/planning-policy/short-term-holiday-lets) (https://www.brightonandhovenews.org/2022/07/16/short-term-holiday-lets-could-face-crackdown-in-brighton-and-hove/).
Application Process and Costs
Application Process:
1. Online Submission: Landlords must apply for a licence through the Brighton and Hove City Council’s online portal.
2. Documentation Required: You will need to submit detailed information about your property, including floor plans, gas and electrical safety certificates, and proof of ownership.
3. Planning Permission: Determine whether you need planning permission by consulting legal advice or applying for a Certificate of Lawful Use. Properties used significantly differently as short-term lets may require planning permission.
4. Fire Safety Assessment: Conduct a fire risk assessment and implement any necessary safety measures identified.
Costs:
- Initial Application Fee: £670
- Weekly Fee: £2.57 per week
- Discount: Properties with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of C or above can receive a £75 discount and a reduced weekly fee of £2.29.
- Penalty for Late Application: £760 for late submissions.
Compliance and Inspection
Health and Safety Standards:
- Ensure your property complies with all health and safety regulations, including the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) and the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
- Complete and regularly update a fire risk assessment, addressing any issues promptly.
Inspections:
- Properties will undergo regular inspections to verify compliance with safety and management standards. Non-compliance can result in fines and increased fees. (https://www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/housing/private-housing/property-licensing-schemes).
Noise and Nuisance Control:
- Implement measures to minimise disturbances to neighbours, such as clear house rules for guests and noise monitoring devices if necessary.
Comparison with London Regulations
Regulations in Brighton and Hove for holiday lets are similar in intent to those in London, focusing on maintaining housing availability, ensuring safety, and minimising community disruption. In London, specific rules require landlords to obtain planning permission if they let out their property for more than 90 nights per year, a rule set to limit the impact on long-term housing availability. Brighton and Hove’s approach, while not identical, shares the goal of balancing the needs of tourism with those of local residents, with additional emphasis on safety and community harmony.
Benefits and Impact
Improved Property Management:
- These regulations help ensure that properties are well-managed and safe for guests, enhancing their overall experience and potentially leading to better reviews and higher occupancy rates.
Community Relations:
- By complying with these regulations, landlords contribute to the local community’s well-being, reducing conflicts with neighbours and promoting a positive image of short-term holiday lets.
Financial Considerations:
- Licensing fees are tax-deductible, which helps offset the cost of compliance. Additionally, maintaining a well-regulated property can reduce long-term maintenance costs and increase property value.
Support and Resources
The Brighton and Hove City Council offers various resources to assist landlords in navigating these new regulations:
- Guidance Documents: Detailed guidelines on fire safety, energy efficiency, and property management standards.
- Public Meetings: Both online and in-person meetings to provide information and answer questions about the licensing process.
- Online Portal: An accessible platform for submitting applications and accessing relevant forms and documentation.
(https://www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/planning/planning-policy/short-term-holiday-lets) (https://www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/housing/private-housing/property-licensing-schemes).
Conclusion
The new licensing rules for short-term holiday lets in Brighton and Hove are designed to create a safer, more regulated environment for both visitors and residents. By adhering to these regulations, landlords can ensure their properties are compliant, safe, and well-managed, contributing to a positive and sustainable tourism industry in the city. For more detailed information and to begin your application, visit the [Brighton and Hove City Council's property licensing page](https://www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/housing/private-housing/property-licensing-schemes). Stay proactive and informed to make the most of your holiday let property in Brighton and Hove.
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