Earlier in 2022, legislation was approved for regulation of short-term lets throughout Scotland and things have now moved forward further as the Scottish Government has now approved Edinburgh’s bid to make Edinburgh a Short-Term Let Control Area.
Planning permission now required for short-term lets throughout Edinburgh
The impact of the whole of Edinburgh being designated a Short-Term Let Control Area means that, from September ‘Change of Use’ planning permission will be required for any residential properties in Edinburgh used for short-term letting . All residential properties will require planning permission unless they meet the exceptions set out in the legislation.
The council’s attempt to balance housing supply in the city
Edinburgh City Council hope that making the whole city a Short-Term Let Control Area will enable them to better balance the housing supply, while still enabling households to rent out individual rooms. Their main concerns relating to short-term lets are safety, anti-social behaviour and excessive noise that short-term lets can create.
Licensing coming from 1st October
From 1st October 2022, new short-term let hosts must obtain a license from their local authority before welcoming their first guests. Existing hosts have until 1st April 2023 to make an application for a license and can continue operating while their licensing application is being determined. More information on what’s expected as part of licensing is available on this blog.
Looking to sell or to switch your short-term let property over to long-term lets
If you have a short-term let and are considering what to do with your property as a result of this news we would love to help. We can either transition you and your property smoothly over from short-term to long-term lets or if you feel it’s time to sell, our estate agency team is ready to get your property on the sales market, giving it the level of promotion it deserves. You can either start your journey with us by carrying out a free, instant online valuation or just contact our onboarding team to find out more about our services.