Plans for regulation scheme in Glasgow after 'explosion' of short-term lets

The public are to be asked for their views over plans for a new scheme to regulate short-term lets in Glasgow.

Proposals are being brought forward by Glasgow City Council’s Licensing and Regulatory Committee.

It is in response to an “explosion” of short-term let properties amid concerns of their impact on neighbourhoods.

Changes made to legislation earlier this year allows local authorities to introduce a licensing framework for owners of properties intended for short-term rental.

Under the scheme, limits could be set on the number of people that can be accommodated in relation to the number of rooms available in a property.

It would also set a requirement for fire, gas and electrical safety standards to be met and seek to apply a fit and proper person test to licence holders.

As part of the changes to the law, it would also become an offence to operate a short-term let without a licence.

Policy has been proposed which would also establish a complaints process for neighbours and tenants.

In addition, public liability insurance would be required to be in place for the duration of any let.

Licence holders would be expected to act reasonably in relation to maintenance for communal areas of a property.

Councillor Alex Wilson, chair of the committee, said the policy sets “basic standards” that hosts should be able to achieve.

“Online booking for short term lets has transformed where people stay for their holidays and made it far easier for property holders to get involved in the rental market,” he said.

“But this explosion in short-term lets also directly impacts upon those living in neighbouring properties and can affect their quality of life if a let is poorly managed.

“This draft policy is an attempt to redress the balance and give other residents some comfort that the short-term let in their close or community will be operated safely and appropriately.

“The policy sets basic standards that any reasonable host should be able to achieve and so provide reassurances to neighbouring residents, but also those who rent the property.

“But it is vitally important that this policy is developed in conjunction with the community at large.”

He added: “We will be seeking views directly from a range of stakeholders, but our consultation on this issue will be open to all And we urge anyone with an interest in this issue to contribute their opinion.

“Full details of how to respond to the consultation will be released in due course.”