Edinburgh new to hosting - CEC property in Morningside

[Von2108]

Hi fellow hosts.  I am brand new to hosting.  I rent a property from Edinburgh Council in Morningside.  My son recently moved out and the property is now very empty and too quiet.  I was wondering if I could occasionally rent the spare room, or if there are any restrictions from Edinburgh Council on this.  Thank you all and best regards.

[Paula]

Hello @Von2108,

I hope you’re doing well!

I noticed you’ve listed your property, but it seems like you might still be in the process of setting everything up. Please let us know if you need any advice along the way—we’re here to help!

In the meantime, while other hosts in your area see your post, I wanted to share this article that offers some insights about local regulations in Edinburgh: Responsible hosting in the United Kingdom.

I hope you find it helpful!

[Veronique243 · Accepted solution]

You will need to apply for a home sharing licence and as a new operator, you cannot take guests until you get your licence. The licencing regulations can be found here:

https://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/directory-record/1542802/short-term-lets

Short term letting is defined as any form of renting where it is not the guests primary home - so if you took in a lodger, licencing would not apply. The council is generally much more kindly disposed towards home sharing than secondary letting, so as long as you meet the criteria and pay the fee, you are likely to get your licence.

[Paula]

@Veronique243 thank you so much for the great advice—I really appreciate it! 🙏

[Von2108]

Thank you, @Veronique243 

[Helen3]

If you're a tenant in social housing I believe it's against the terms of your tenancy to do this but do check on your tenancy agreement @Von2108 

If you are allowed to do this by the Council then check the STR regulations on the Edinburgh Council website to see if you meet the conditions required to apply for an STR licence.

[Kevin3617]

What if you plan to stay in the property yourself and just rent out a single room ?  Still need the licence?