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Want to start hosting on Airbnb in the UK? Here’s what you need to know.
To set up a successful Airbnb, you'll need to:
Quick tip: UK hosts can enjoy a £1,000 tax-free allowance on hosting income, or £7,500 under the Rent-a-Room Scheme for primary residences.
Want to know more? Keep reading for a detailed checklist to get started.
Before hosting your first guests, make sure the property is thoroughly cleaned. Start by removing all personal items to create a neutral and inviting environment. Pay extra attention to areas guests will use the most.
Set up cleaning zones to avoid missing anything:
"I set six hours between bookings so that we can do a thorough clean. The space has to be exactly as you have it in your online listing." – Daniel, Host Advisory Board member and Superhost in the Canary Islands, Spain
Once the property is spotless and clutter-free, you can move on to furnishing it with durable and practical pieces.
After cleaning, ensure the property is equipped with essential furniture. Here's a quick guide for each space:
| Room | Essential Furniture |
|---|---|
| Entryway | Coat rack, shoe storage, entry bench |
| Living Room | Comfortable sofa, coffee table, TV unit |
| Dining Area | Table and chairs (sized for guest capacity) |
| Bedroom | Bed frame, quality mattress, bedside tables, dresser |
| Storage | Suitcase stands, laundry hampers |
Prioritise comfort and practicality when selecting furniture.
Meeting UK safety standards is critical. Make sure the property complies with these basic safety measures:
Stock your property with essentials to ensure guests feel at home from the moment they arrive. Here's a detailed list by area:
| Room | Essential Supplies |
|---|---|
| Kitchen | • Cookware (pots, pans, baking sheets) • Utensils and knife set • Plates, bowls, and cups (double guest capacity) • Tea towels and oven mitts • Bin liners and cleaning supplies |
| Bathroom | • Bath and hand towels • Toilet paper (2 rolls per bathroom) • Hand soap and sanitiser • Basic toiletries • Bath mat and toilet brush |
| Bedroom | • 2 sets of bed linen per bed • 2 pillows per person • Spare blankets • Clothes hangers (10 per guest) |
Don't forget to include cleaning essentials like:
Adding some thoughtful extras can make a big difference to the guest experience.
Small comforts and extras can help guests feel even more welcome:
Additional kitchen items:
Comfort Items:
Reliable internet and entertainment options are must-haves for modern travellers. Here's what to provide:
Internet Setup:
Entertainment Essentials:
Create a short, clear welcome guide to provide guests with all the key details they need. Whether it's a printed booklet or a digital file, make sure it includes:
Place the guide somewhere easy to spot, like the kitchen counter or coffee table. Sending a digital version before their arrival can also be helpful.
Once guests have the welcome guide, make their arrival smooth with a simple check-in system. Options like smart locks, keypad locks, or key safes are popular choices.
| Check-in Method | Benefits | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Smart Lock | - Manage codes remotely - Time-restricted access - Monitor activity |
Upfront cost is higher |
| Keypad Lock | - No physical key needed - Runs on batteries - Easy to change codes |
Batteries need regular checks |
| Key Safe | - Easy to use - Budget-friendly - No power needed |
Codes must be changed manually |
For every booking, generate a unique access code and send instructions 24–48 hours before their arrival. Include clear photos of the entrance, lock or key safe, and parking area to avoid confusion.
Once the check-in process is sorted, shift your attention to creating a welcoming atmosphere.
Make your property inviting by blending practicality with a touch of local character. Focus on these key areas:
Lighting Solutions:
Comfort Elements:
Personal Touches:
These small details can make a big difference in how guests feel during their stay.
Before listing your property, make sure you understand the local regulations in the UK. For example, in Greater London, the "90-night rule" limits short-term rentals to 90 nights per calendar year unless you obtain special planning permission.
In Scotland, licensing rules are stricter:
Edinburgh, for instance, has classified the entire city as a Short Term Let Control Area. This means planning permission is mandatory if you're using a second home as a holiday let.
Additionally, you'll need to create guest policies that align with these legal and safety standards.
Based on these legal requirements, establish clear house rules to comply with UK laws and safeguard your property.
Safety Requirements:
Tax Obligations:
If your property is available for 140 days or more each year in England, Scotland, or Wales, you might need to register for business rates instead of council tax. Always check with your local authority for the most up-to-date requirements.
Daily management tasks are essential for ensuring your property runs smoothly and stays competitive, offering guests a seamless experience.
Set rates strategically to maximise revenue and attract early bookings. Start with rates 15–20% below market value to encourage initial reviews.
Plan distinct rate periods based on seasonal trends and local events:
Use dynamic pricing tools to adjust rates based on factors like demand, competitor pricing, and booking trends. Once pricing is sorted, focus on maintaining high service standards, starting with cleanliness.
Cleanliness is key to earning positive reviews.
1. Post-checkout inspection
Inspect the property within two hours of a guest's departure. Document any damages or missing items, and take photos of the property's condition.
2. Deep cleaning protocol
Follow a detailed checklist for thorough cleaning:
After cleaning, restock amenities and conduct a final inspection at least three hours before the next check-in. Regular maintenance will help keep your property in excellent shape.
Staying ahead with regular maintenance helps avoid costly repairs and ensures guest satisfaction.
Weekly Tasks:
Monthly Tasks:
Quarterly Tasks:
Keep a maintenance log to track completed tasks and address any issues quickly. Build relationships with local tradespeople for emergency repairs. For properties with high guest turnover, consider increasing the frequency of maintenance checks.
These tools and services are designed to make daily management tasks easier and more efficient.
StayRight offers a range of services to help you manage your Airbnb effectively. Here's what they provide:
They also handle guest screening, security deposits, and provide hotel-quality linens, allowing you to focus on your property investment.
| Service Component | Benefits | Impact on Operations |
|---|---|---|
| Dynamic Pricing | Adjusts rates to match market conditions | Increases revenue potential |
| Guest Support | Around-the-clock communication | Enhances guest satisfaction and efficiency |
| Maintenance | Routine checks and quick repairs | Maintains property condition and reduces issues |
| Cleaning | Professional housekeeping services | Ensures high standards for guest reviews |
Using pre-written message templates ensures consistent and professional communication with guests. Below are some examples:
Automate these templates to ensure timely and professional communication with your guests.
Setting up a safe and welcoming Airbnb property in the UK requires attention to detail and adherence to local safety standards. Not only does this protect your guests, but it also safeguards your investment.
A well-organised, stylish property with quality furnishings and dependable amenities can make all the difference in attracting bookings. Combine this with a clear welcome guide, smooth check-in process, and responsive communication to create a positive guest experience.
To keep things running smoothly, focus on these key areas:
StayRight's management services can help simplify these tasks, offering expert support with pricing, guest assistance, and more.