As holiday accommodation providers in Scotland, we’re all aware of the new short-term let licensing scheme that came into effect on October 1st, 2023. While navigating the regulations might seem daunting, we’re embracing these changes, and be assured that our units are always up to date and compliant with today’s current standards.
It’s important to do your own research on licensing regulations to ensure you fully understand them. You can also contact your local council for specific guidance.
What’s the Deal with Licences?
As of October 2023, all short-term let accommodations in Scotland require a licence from the local council. This applies to everything from cosy B&Bs and charming holiday cottages to unique yurts and pods. The aim? To ensure guest safety, responsible neighbourhood conduct, and a fairer playing field for the tourism industry.
What Does This Mean for Me?
Here’s a breakdown of how the licensing scheme might impact you:
- Existing Providers: If you were already operating a short-term let before October 2022, you had until October 2023 to apply for a licence. The good news is you can continue operating while your application is being processed.
- New Providers: You’ll need a licence before welcoming your first guests. Don’t worry, you can advertise your property, but bookings and stays are off-limits until the licence is granted.
Finding Out More:
Feeling a little overwhelmed? Don’t fret! The Scottish Government offers a wealth of resources to help you navigate the licensing process. Here are some handy starting points:
Short-term lets licensing scheme guide: https://shorttermlets.campaign.gov.scot/
Short-term lets checker tool: https://www.mygov.scot/short-term-let-licences
Your local council website: Most local councils have dedicated sections on their websites outlining the application process and specific requirements for your area.
What Now?
To start the application, you’ll need to have the following pieces of information to hand:
- Ownership details of the property including evidence of consent where you do not own the premises
- Occupancy details including proposed occupancy, number of bedrooms and number of separate letting units
- Previous occupancy rates for the last 3 years where the premises is already trading
- Address history for 5 years, for all persons/agents/companies listed on the application
- Agent and owner details where applicable
- When applying as a company, names, private addresses and dates and places of birth of its directors, partners or other persons responsible for its management, including trustees in the case of charities
- Any criminal convictions for all persons named on the licence application
- Current Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) status of the premises (if building is eligible for EPCs, our units are required to meet the same regulations as caravans so you don’t need to provide this).
You will also need to provide the following documentation (where applicable):
- Floor plans of the premises – Iron & Pine can provide these
- Fire risk assessment
- Electrical Installation Condition report – Iron & Pine provides this
- Portable Appliance Testing (PAT) report
- Gas Safety report – If your Iron & Pine unit requires a gas connection or equipment, we supply the gas safety certificate for this
- Current bacterial test certificate and Risk Assessment for private water supplies
- Valid buildings and public liability insurance documents
