If you’re thinking about running your property as a holiday rental, there’s more to consider than just decor and good photographs. In the UK, short-term holiday lets must meet a number of legal and safety requirements before you can welcome any guests. Getting these steps right not only protects your guests, but also protects you.

This blog post gives you a clear guide to making sure your property is holiday rental ready.

1. Fire Risk Assessment (FRA)

Anyone providing accommodation to paying guests must carry out a FRA. This involves identifying fire hazards, evaluating risks, and putting suitable measures in place. You’ll need to ensure:

• Grade D1 interconnected smoke/heat alarms in every room (hard-wired is preferred, but battery powered are acceptable)
• A carbon monoxide alarm in rooms with solid fuel or gas appliances
• Fire extinguishers or fire blankets in the kitchen
• Clearly marked escape routes and clearly communicated instructions for guests
• Emergency lighting for power failure (hard-wired is preferred, but battery powered are acceptable)

2. Electrical Safety (EICR)

You must have a valid Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) conducted, which confirms that all electrical systems and fixed wiring in the property are safe. An EICR must be carried out by a qualified electrician at least every five years (or sooner if required).

3. Gas Safety Certificate

If your property has any gas appliances, such as a boiler, hob, or gas fire, you must have them inspected annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Once inspected, you’ll receive a Gas Safety Certificate, which must be renewed every 12 months. 

4. Holiday Let Insurance

Standard home insurance doesn’t usually cover short-term rentals. You’ll need specialist holiday let insurance that typically includes:

• Public liability cover (in case guests are injured)
• Accidental damage
• Loss of rental income due to property damage
• Employer’s liability (if you hire people to manage the property for you)

Always inform your insurer that you’re using the property as a holiday rental – failure to do so can invalidate your cover. There are some insurance providers who can offer ‘bolt-on’ holiday let insurance to your existing home cover. 

5. Local Authority Registration

Depending on your property’s location, you may be required to register your holiday let with the local authority as a commercial premises. This can also impact your waste collection services, as waste from a holiday rental is classified as commercial rather than domestic.

Even if your property complies with all the necessary safety and legal standards, you must still confirm that you’re permitted to operate it as a holiday let. For detailed information and local requirements, it’s best to check your local council’s website.

6. Other things to check before listing

• Leasehold restrictions – if your property is leasehold, review your lease. Some leases specifically forbid short-term or holiday letting, or require permission from the freeholder.
• Mortgage lender approval – many standard residential mortgages prohibit short-term lets.

Final Thoughts

Getting your property holiday rental ready isn’t just about ticking legal boxes – it’s about creating a safe, comfortable, and welcoming experience for your guests.

At Roost Bath, we can guide you through every step of the process – ensuring your property meets all the current compliance standards. By staying on top of safety requirements and keeping your paperwork in order, you’ll set your holiday rental up for long-term success and have complete peace of mind.