The Airbnb Compliance Checklist for Landlords

Running a successful Airbnb isn’t just about getting bookings — it’s about staying compliant. Whether you’re new to short-term lets or expanding your property portfolio, understanding the Airbnb legal requirements in the UK is critical to protecting your investment and keeping your business on the right side of the law.

At Eason Stays, we manage short-term rental properties across the UK, and we’ve seen firsthand how easily landlords can overlook key regulations. That’s why we’ve put together this practical checklist: so you know exactly what’s required before you open your doors to guests.

Why Compliance Matters

It may be tempting to skip the fine print and just focus on guest reviews and earnings — but that’s a risky move. Failing to meet legal requirements can result in:

• Fines from local councils
• Listing bans on Airbnb
• Increased insurance premiums
• Reputation damage
• In extreme cases, even legal action

The good news? With a clear checklist and the right systems, staying compliant is entirely manageable — even if you’re running multiple properties remotely.

Your Airbnb Compliance Checklist: Legal Requirements Every UK Landlord Must Meet

Let’s dive into the must-haves when it comes to Airbnb legal requirements in the UK. We’ve grouped them into categories to keep things simple and actionable.

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1. Planning Permission & Local Licensing

• Check with your local council: Many UK cities — like London, Edinburgh, and Manchester — have local regulations for short-term lets.
• In London, the 90-day rule means you can’t rent your property for more than 90 nights per year unless you have planning permission.
• In Scotland, you must apply for a short-term let license under the new STL scheme.
• Licensing may vary by borough — always confirm directly with your local authority.

Learn more about Airbnb licensing rules in your city

2. Gas Safety Certificate (CP12)

• A legal requirement if your property has gas appliances.
• Must be conducted annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer.
• You’ll need to provide a copy to guests on request.

3. Electrical Safety Certificate (EICR)

• Applies to all rental properties in the UK.
• Must be renewed every 5 years and carried out by a qualified electrician.
• Required even for short-term rentals listed on Airbnb or other platforms.

4. Fire Safety Compliance

You are legally responsible for keeping your guests safe from fire. Your property must include:

• Smoke alarms on every floor
• Carbon monoxide detector near fuel-burning appliances
• Fire extinguisher and/or fire blanket (especially in the kitchen)
• Clearly marked escape routes and a fire risk assessment
• Fire-safe furniture that meets UK safety regulations

This isn’t just best practice — it’s the law.

5. Insurance for Short-Term Lets

Standard landlord or home insurance typically won’t cover Airbnb activity.

You should have:

• Specialist short-term let insurance
• Public liability insurance (in case a guest is injured)
• Coverage for accidental damage and theft

It’s also wise to check whether your mortgage lender allows short-term letting, as it may affect your policy.

6. Health & Safety Risk Assessment

Although not a formal requirement for all properties, conducting a general risk assessment is good practice — and often expected by insurers.

This may include checking:

• Slippery surfaces or uneven floors
• Loose stair rails or faulty windows
• Proper ventilation
• Mold, pests, or damp issues

Document your findings and any improvements you’ve made. It shows you’re a responsible host and protects you legally.

7. Cleaning Protocol & Covid Guidelines (Still Relevant)

While we’re past the peak of the pandemic, cleanliness is still a key guest expectation and should meet minimum hygiene standards.

• Use professional cleaners or trained staff
• Sanitize high-touch areas between stays
• Provide hand sanitizer and cleaning supplies
• Include a brief health & safety notice in your welcome pack

Airbnb cleaning checklist

8. Data Protection (GDPR)

If you collect guest information through Airbnb or any external systems (like smart locks, CRMs, or direct bookings), you must:

• Comply with GDPR rules
• Secure personal data
• Be transparent about how guest data is used
• Provide an opt-out for marketing communication

Using platforms like Airbnb helps simplify this, but if you use additional tools, make sure they’re compliant too.

9. Council Tax or Business Rates

Depending on how often you let your property, you may need to pay:

• Council tax for occasional rentals
• Business rates for full-time Airbnb lets (typically over 140 days per year)

Some local councils offer Small Business Rate Relief — it’s worth checking if you qualify.

10. HMRC and Tax Declarations

Income from Airbnb must be reported to HMRC. While you may benefit from the £1,000 property allowance or the Rent-a-Room Scheme, it’s important to:

• Keep records of all bookings, expenses, and earnings
• Submit your annual Self Assessment tax return
• Seek advice from a property accountant if needed

Eason Stays: Helping You Stay Compliant (and Stress-Free)

At Eason Stays, we don’t just manage your bookings — we manage the whole short-let lifecycle, including compliance. We work with trusted local professionals to:

• Arrange your Gas and Electrical Safety Certificates
• Conduct fire risk assessments
• Monitor licensing changes across UK councils
• Ensure your property is legally ready for guests — every time

Whether you have one flat or a growing portfolio, we make sure your Airbnb runs smoothly, legally, and profitably.

Ready to List Without the Legal Headaches?

Get a Free Compliance Check and Property Valuation
Let us help you make your Airbnb listing safe, compliant, and fully optimized for success. With Eason Stays, you’re in expert hands — from keys to regulations.

Don’t Leave Compliance to Chance

The UK’s short-let landscape is evolving quickly, and staying compliant is no longer optional. Whether you’re hosting a few weekends a year or running a full-time holiday let, the rules apply — and the penalties for ignoring them can be steep.

But with the right preparation — and the right partner — managing your legal obligations can be straightforward and stress-free.

Tick every box. Avoid every fine. Protect your investment.