To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the reply by Lord Bourne of Aberystwyth
on 26 February (HL Deb, col 88), what assessment they have made (1) of reports in
the media, as broadcast on BBC1 on 25 February, about companies offering advice to
circumvent the 90-day limit for short-term lettings, and (2) of the existing regulatory
framework for those who offer such lettings; and what plans they have to ensure that
the 90-day limit is enforced.
<p>The Government has been clear that it is illegal to let a property out on a short-term
basis in London for more than 90 days in a calendar year without appropriate planning
permission. Therefore, the Government condemns any actions taken to encourage landlords
to break the law.</p><p>We are encouraging the Short Term Accommodation Association
(STAA) to drive up standards and promote best practice, and to work with local authorities
to support their enforcement and monitoring functions. The STAA has developed a package
of measures to help hosts, guests and building managers and owners understand their
legal responsibilities, which will help to tackle awareness and enforcement of the
90 night rule.</p><p>Responsibility for enforcing the 90 night rule in London lies
with local authorities, as it does for any breaches of planning control, and householders
who breach the rules face potentially significant fines.</p>
To ask Her Majesty's Government, further to the reply by Lord Bourne of Aberystwyth
on 26 February (HL Deb, col 89), what progress has been made on the introduction of
the accreditation body for short-term lettings; what consultation has taken place
and is planned to take place; who has been, or will be, consulted; and when they expect
such a body to be established.
<p>We welcome the work that the Short Term Accommodation Association (STAA) is doing
to drive up standards and promote best practice.</p><p>The STAA is introducing a voluntary
industry accreditation scheme for short term rental businesses and hosts that allows
properties to become STAA accredited if they meet certain standards, including on
health and safety. The accreditation scheme is organised by Quality in Tourism, and
has been developed in conjunction with Visit England and piloted with at least three
different sized organisations. The scheme is live on the STAA’s website, and will
be formally launched on 14 March at the STAA’s Short Stay Show annual industry conference.</p>
