Propertymark has urged caution over a string of reforms being proposed for the short lets sector.

Four changes to how Airbnb-style short lets are managed, are being proposed by the Northern Ireland Assembly.

It’s started a consultation over four main changes:

• Amendments and modernisation of existing statutory minimum criteria;
• Creation of a new statutory category called “Alternative Accommodation”;
• Changes to the rules on keeping a Visitors Register; and
• Changes to requirements for the Display of Charges.

A statement from the agents’ trade body says short term lets serve a wide range of users beyond typical holidaymakers.

This includes people between homes during the buying and selling process and those temporarily relocating for work or study. 

They offer flexibility and additional income for property owners as well as opportunities for agents to expand services.

Regulation must support high standards without creating unnecessary barriers for responsible agents and landlords.

Propertymark’s key concerns and recommendations

It says most of the proposed criteria will improve quality across the sector. 

However, it wants some improvements which it believes would strengthen the reforms.  

In a statement it says: “We recommend a new statutory category specifically for short-term private rented accommodation. 

“While short term lets can fall within the self-catering definition, they have distinct characteristics. 

“They are often former long-term rental properties, are lived in for longer periods than traditional holiday accommodation and are commonly managed by letting agents. 

“A separate category would allow criteria to reflect these differences more accurately.”

Propertymark also welcomes clarification that both proprietors and their agents are responsible for managing self-catering properties. 

However, it wants wording to make clear that the person identified in the tenancy agreement should be contactable in an emergency.

It continues: “Clarification is needed on the proposal that properties must have ‘suitable arrangements’ for reception, check-in and check-out. 

“Many short term lets use online systems or contractual arrangements, and we have asked for confirmation that signing a tenancy or letting agreement can meet this requirement. 

“We have also recommended that responsibility for linen during a stay should be clearly set out in the contract, with landlords or agents responsible for cleaning between lets.”