Understanding Airbnb host regulations in York

According to AirDNA, the short-term rentals market in York, North Yorkshire, UK, is thriving, with an average room rate of around £114 per night and an average occupancy rate of 62%. The average revenue per available room (RevPAR) is approximately £70. If you're considering investing in a short-term rental in York, it's essential to understand the regulations you'll need to comply with.

In this post, we'll provide you with a comprehensive guide to the Airbnb regulations for hosts in York. Whether you're a new host or looking to expand your portfolio, this guide will help you navigate the rules and regulations to ensure you're operating your short-term rental business legally and responsibly.

*Please note, we worked hard to make this post as relevant and updated as possible during the publication time (April 2023). We strongly encourage you to consult an expert or a lawyer if you are thinking of starting an Airbnb business in York.

What are the main policies for Airbnb rentals in York?

In York, short-term rentals are subject to certain regulations that hosts must comply with. These regulations aim to balance the interests of local communities and tourists, ensuring that short-term rentals operate in a responsible and sustainable manner.

Unlike some other UK cities, York does not require hosts to obtain a license to operate a short-term rental business. However, hosts are still required to comply with safety and fire regulations, and it is recommended that they have appropriate liability insurance.

Additionally, hosts must adhere to certain conditions, such as ensuring that guests have a safe and comfortable stay, and not causing any disturbance to the local community. Hosts are also required to keep records of their guests' details for a minimum of 12 months.

Do you need a planning permission to run an Airbnb rental in York?

Fortunately, landlords in York can enjoy relative freedom in terms of short-term rentals regulations. In most cases, hosts do not need to obtain planning permission or any other legal status for their property to operate as a short-term rental. We advise you to check before any bookings are made, however, as this varied based on many factors. It's essential to note that any alterations to the property, such as converting a garage or outbuilding, may require planning permission.

Overall, hosts in York must comply with the necessary regulations and policies to operate their short-term rentals legally and responsibly. By doing so, hosts can help maintain a positive relationship between the local community and tourists while also providing a high-quality and enjoyable experience for their guests.

Does the 90-day rental rule apply to properties in York?

No. In York, there is no specific limit on the number of days per calendar year that a property can be rented out as a short-term rental. However, hosts are still required to obtain a license to operate their business and comply with certain conditions to ensure that their rental is safe and does not cause any disturbance to the local community.

What should you know about taxes on short-term property rentals in York?

When it comes to taxes on short-term property rentals in York, there are a few key things that hosts should be aware of:

1. Council Tax: If you're providing short-term rental stays, you'll need to pay council tax on the property, even if you are eligible for a reduction or an exemption. However, in some cases, hosts may be exempt from paying council tax if they are liable for business rates instead.

2. Tax-Free Allowance: As a host, you are allowed to make up to £7,500 annually tax-free from letting out accommodation in your permanent residence. This tax-free allowance is known as the "Rent a Room" scheme and applies if you are renting out a room in your primary residence. However, if you're renting out a second property or a vacation home, regular rental income tax rules will apply.

It's important to note that tax laws can be complex and subject to change, so hosts should always check the latest guidance and regulations from the government to ensure they are complying with their tax obligations. The HM Revenue & Customs website provides detailed information on taxes related to short-term rentals, including information on council tax and the "Rent a Room" scheme.

Tax-free allowances for short-term accommodation in York

The Micro-Entrepreneurs allowance (click here to read more) is a tax relief that allows individuals to earn up to £1,000 tax-free each year from self-employment income, including income earned from short-term rentals on platforms like Airbnb. However, it's important to note that hosts cannot claim both the Micro-Entrepreneurs allowance and Rent-a-Room relief on the same income.

Hosts in York who are eligible for the Micro-Entrepreneurs allowance should check the latest guidance from the government to ensure they are complying with their tax obligations. The HM Revenue & Customs website provides detailed information on tax allowances and regulations for self-employed individuals, including those who earn income from short-term rentals.

Do I have to charge business rates on my short-term property in York?

According to the UK government's website, self-catering properties that are available for rent for 140 days or more in a year are considered business-rate properties, and the owner may be liable for business rates instead of council tax. This means that hosts in York who rent out their properties for more than 140 days a year may be subject to business rates.

The amount of business rates that a host is required to pay depends on various factors, including the type and size of the property, its location, and the number of guests that can be accommodated. Guest houses or bed-and-breakfasts that can accommodate more than six people at a time may also be subject to business rates.

It's important for hosts in York to carefully consider their tax obligations and to check the latest guidance from the government and their local council to ensure they are complying with all relevant regulations. The City of York Council's website provides information on business rates for short-term rentals, including how to register for business rates and how to apply for exemptions or reductions.

Have you heard of KeyNest?

As a York-based landlord or host, KeyNest Points can offer you a convenient and cost-effective solution for key management and check-ins.

By dropping off your keys with KeyNest, your guests, cleaners, or contractors can securely retrieve them from one of our 4,000 points located throughout the city, typically at local stores or cafes.

You will receive notifications each time the key is picked up and returned, and you can set customized times for check-in and check-out to fit your schedule.

With a vast network of points in York, there is likely a KeyNest location just a few minutes away from your property. To learn more, visit https://keynest.com/.