Airbnb and UK Commercial Rates

[Danny-and-Shaun0]

Hi Community!!  We could really do with some help understanding the rules if anyone can clarify this at all.

Our home is a small three bedroom terrace house.  It's primary function is our home.  We have one room that we let through Airbnb with use of a shared bathroom and breakfast provided in the kitchen. 

We generally let the room to single visitors or couples, but occasionally three guests stay, for example a couple and their child.

Somebody has kindly reported us to our local council (Torbay) for running a Bed and Breakfast business.  The council have advised that we contact the VOA for valuation for paying business rates.

We like to meet our responsibilities as hosts, have endeavoured to meet all heath and safety requirements, declare the modest income we make and pay any tax due, but quite honestly this never crossed my mind. 

I've done a little reading about this and it seems that if you have fewer than six guests at any one time and the main function of your property is as your home then business rates should not apply. 

This could potentially be a big issue for the community and I was wondering what others experience has been?

Thank you in advance....and happy hosting to all 🙂

Kind regards, 

Danny and Shaun 

[Jeff158]

@Danny-and-Shaun0 rules are different everywhere, so the best thing is to contact the council.

Up here you would only need to have the kitchen inspected and the scores on the doors hygiene thing set up, business rates would not apply.

[Danny-and-Shaun0]

Hi Jeff......many thanks!  I am hoping that will be the case.  I spoke to the council today who seemed unsure themselves of the rules and have advised me to speak to the VOA which I have.  The advisor I spoke to also was unsure so will seek clarification for me tomorrow.

I shall post the outcome for the information of others.

Thanks again,

Danny and Shaun 🙂