Setting up outbuilding accommodation help

[Alice656]

I am planning to use an existing wooden outbuilding as airbnb accommodation, what do I need to consider before I proceed, please? 

[Ian-And-Anne-Marie0]

@Alice656 

It will depend firstly in what part of the world you are and whether you can obtain permission for the outbuilding to be used as accommodation or not.

The extent of development required can vary between rustic shack and full on log cabin. Each will have a market.

Need more information.

[Alice656]

I am in nottinghamshire, there is a demand in my town for accommodation, however I am only planning to rent it out for under 90 days, does this mean I still need planning permission on it? It's an existing wooden build, currently used to house a hot tub, but definately has scope for conversion for airbnb. Wondering whether I'd need permission for a shower room? 

[Ian-And-Anne-Marie0]

@Alice656 

The problem with many outdoor buildings are that they are classed as 'temporary' buildings and as such don't come with permission for habitation. You are allowed to use them recreationally, can put a kitchen or bar in them for use in the garden but the addition of a neccesary toilet - is frowned upon and this is when you need planning permission.

You might get away with having the benefit of a toilet in the Hot tub area, (as long as the council don't find out), but as an accomodation unit you will have all sorts of problems.

A way around it is to locate a caravan near the cabin, use the caravan for sleeping and toilet use and the cabin as a day room. Because the caravan is on wheels and can move, the same temporary building regulations don't apply.

In the same category as caravans are shepherds huts and train coaches. Pretty much the same as a cabin, but with wheels. Go figure!

I'd enquire with your local council initially. They are the people who have the control and the people who your neighbours will complain to about people living in your garden.

[Helen350]

@Ian-And-Anne-Marie0  My neighbours complained to the council about people living IN MY HOUSE! - Flippin' West Cumbrians!  (The council said "It's only Airbnb so who cares, that's only like lodgers!)

[Ian-And-Anne-Marie0]

@Helen350 

Quite right! It would be a lot different if they were living in your shed though  Lol !

[Helen3]

1. Can you get planning permission

2. Is there a demand for this sort of accommodation in your area

3. A budget including set up and ongoing costs to identify likely profit margins.