Enforcement

Unlawful short term lets

Letting your property for less than 90 days could cost you £20,000.

Thinking of letting out your flat for short stays?

Are you tempted to short let your property? Perhaps you're going away for a long holiday or working away from home on a contract. Or perhaps you're investing in rental property and are attracted by the high rentals you've been told you can get.

Well, think again because you'll need planning permission to let your property for less than 90 days and without it you are breaking the law and you could be fined up to £20,000. The future sale of your property could also be affected as any enforcement notice will be registered as a legal charge and may deter future buyers.

We're working towards a cleaner, safer Westminster through our One City programme and one of our key aims is to take action on issues that you tell us affect you. One of these issues is illegal short letting.

Who to contact:

The Council has a dedicated team who investigate reports of short letting and take enforcement action.

If you suspect a property is being let out on a short term basis (ie less than 90 days) report it to the Planning Enforcement Team and we'll investigate.

If you need advice on what else you can do as a resident, residents' association, freeholder or leaseholder see the attached guide for further information and contact details.