Michael Gove, the UK’s Housing Secretary, has unveiled proposals that could transform the way short-term rentals, like those found on Airbnb, operate. This move aims to bring more regulation to the burgeoning short-term let market, addressing growing concerns over the impact of such rentals on local communities and housing availability.
A New Era for Short-Term Lets
At the heart of Gove’s announcement is the introduction of a new legal requirement for those looking to rent out their properties on a short-term basis. Under the proposed changes, individuals wishing to turn their property into a short-term holiday home would need to obtain planning permission from their local authority. This legislation is being introduced as a response to the “hollowing out” of communities—a phenomenon where the influx of short-term lets contributes to a shortage of available housing for local residents.
Interestingly, the new rules come with a clear exemption: properties rented out by their main occupants for 90 days or less per year won’t be subject to these regulations. This exemption aims to balance the benefits that short-term lets can offer to homeowners and the tourism sector, without compromising the availability of local housing.
Strengthening Local Authority Oversight
To aid in the enforcement of these new rules, the government plans to establish a mandatory national register for short-term lets. This register will equip councils with essential data, enabling them to monitor the short-term rental market within their jurisdiction more effectively.
Gove emphasised that these regulatory changes are designed to empower local communities, ensuring they have a say in the housing dynamics of their areas. The goal is to achieve a harmonious balance where local housing needs are met without stifling the tourism economy that benefits from the flexibility and diversity of accommodation options provided by platforms like Airbnb.
The proposals have received backing from various quarters, including Airbnb itself. Amanda Cupples, the General Manager for Northern Europe at Airbnb, expressed support for the establishment of a short-term lets register. She highlighted that clear regulations would benefit hosts by providing clarity around their activities, while also allowing local authorities to manage and assess the impact of short-term rentals on housing and community health.
A Comprehensive Plan for Housing
These proposed changes are part of the government’s broader strategy to address housing issues in the UK. Additional measures include the introduction of permitted development rights, which would simplify the process for converting properties between short-term lets and standard residential dwellings. Local authorities, however, will retain the power to require full planning permission if deemed necessary, ensuring that local considerations can override general permissions.
What’s Next?
The government plans to roll out these changes starting this summer, following a detailed review of public consultations. The implementation timeline for the register, the new use class for short-term lets, and the specific permitted development rights will be outlined, marking a significant step towards regulating the short-term let market.
In summary, these proposals signal a significant shift in the UK’s approach to managing the impact of short-term rentals. By requiring planning permission and establishing a national register, the government aims to protect community interests while still supporting the tourism economy. The move is a balancing act, aiming to ensure that the benefits of short-term lets are enjoyed without compromising the ability of local residents to find affordable housing.