On Sunday 1st October 2023, the new short term let licensing laws came into force throughout the whole of Scotland by the implementation of The Civic Government (Scotland) Act 1982 (Licensing of Short-term Lets) Order 2022.
This means properties that are used for holiday accommodation, whether in whole or in part, must have a licence before they can take bookings or receive guests. Failure to comply with the new legislation is a criminal offence which could be met with a fine of £2,500 together with a ban on obtaining a licence in the future.
There are various types of short-term licences and a helpful tool can be found on the Scottish Government’s website to find out what type you need. The property is also required to meet certain repairing standards for houses and flats to meet the criteria to obtain a licence which include holding a valid Energy Performance Certificate, having adequate fire safety measures in place, Gas Safety Certificate, Electrical Installation Condition Report, PAT Testing and a water test report. Certain insurances must also be in place. local councils can also set further conditions details of which can be found on each individual council’s website.
Once the licence is received it will last for up to 3 years from the date it was issued.
Some holiday home-owners are finding the new rules too cumbersome and are opting to sell their property. At Innes & MacKay, we cover the whole of the Highlands providing the most exposure to the market compared to our competitors by listing your property for sale on HSPC, Rightmove, Zoopla and Primelocation. For a free no obligation quotation contact our Property team today at 01463 251200 or email property@innesmackay.com.
