Short Let

Short Let is a rental arrangement for a brief period, typically less than 6 months, used for holiday accommodation, corporate stays, or transitional housing. In London, short-term lets are restricted to 90 days per year without planning permission. Short lets may not qualify as ASTs if used for holiday purposes, meaning different legal frameworks apply including potentially no deposit protection requirements and reduced tenant protections.

Types of Short Lets

Holiday lets:

• Airbnb, Booking.com listings
• Tourist accommodation
• Usually days to weeks

Corporate short lets:

• Business travellers
• Project-based workers
• Relocation housing
• Usually weeks to months

Transitional housing:

• Between property sales
• During renovations
• Temporary work assignments

Short Let vs AST

Legal Considerations

In London:

• 90-day rule for short-term lets
• Planning permission needed beyond 90 days
• Platforms must enforce limit (from 2024)

Elsewhere:

• Check local planning rules
• Some areas have restrictions
• Article 4 directions may apply

When Short Lets Aren't ASTs

A short let may not be an AST if:

• Let for holiday purposes
• Rent over £100,000/year
• Company let
• Doesn't meet AST criteria

This means:

• No deposit protection required
• Different eviction rules
• Less tenant protection

Taxation

Short let income may be:

• Subject to income tax
• VAT applicable (if furnished holiday let)
• Different expense rules
• Capital gains implications

For Letting Agents

Short let considerations:

• Different market and marketing
• Higher turnover management
• Premium pricing but more work
• Check planning restrictions
• Understand different legal framework
• Consider specialised platforms