Free Holiday Let Tenancy Agreement Template UK

The number of landlords in the UK who let their properties as holiday lets has increased significantly in recent years, largely driven by the rise of platforms like Airbnb and the demand for short-term rentals.

According to data from property and holiday letting sources, as of 2023, there are around 148,000 holiday lets in the UK. This number includes properties specifically let out for short-term stays, such as holiday homes, cottages, and city apartments. The number of landlords involved can be slightly less, as some may own multiple properties.

This figure has been growing, particularly in popular tourist areas like Cornwall, the Lake District, and certain urban centers like London and Edinburgh. The trend reflects a shift by some landlords from traditional long-term rentals to the potentially more lucrative short-term holiday letting market.

We know of many householders in the Wimbledon area, for example, who leave their homes to players, officials and tennis fans for three weeks each summer when the Grand Slam tournament is taking place in SW19.

Who uses holiday lets in the UK?

Holiday lets in the UK attract a diverse range of users. Here’s an overview of who typically uses them:

1. Domestic Tourists:
   • Families: Holiday lets are popular with families who prefer the flexibility and space that a rental home offers compared to a hotel. They often seek properties in coastal regions, countryside areas, and popular tourist destinations.
   • Couples: Couples, particularly those on romantic getaways or short breaks, frequently use holiday lets for the privacy and unique experiences they offer.
   • Groups of Friends: Groups often book holiday lets for events, celebrations, or simply for a group vacation. Properties that accommodate larger numbers are particularly popular in scenic or culturally significant areas.
2. International Tourists:
   • Tourists from abroad, particularly from Europe, North America, and increasingly Asia, use holiday lets as a base for exploring the UK. They are attracted to the variety of options, from quaint countryside cottages to city-centre apartments.
3. Business Travelers:
   • Some business travellers, especially those on extended stays, prefer holiday lets for the comfort and home-like environment. This trend has been noticeable in cities where business travel is common.
4. Staycationers:
   • The staycation trend, where people take holidays within their own country, has boosted the popularity of holiday lets. This became particularly pronounced during the COVID-19 pandemic when international travel was restricted.
5. Event Attendees:
   • Visitors attending specific events, such as festivals, weddings, or sporting events, often choose holiday lets for their accommodation, especially in areas where hotels may be fully booked or more expensive during peak times.
6. Digital Nomads and Remote Workers:
   • With the rise of remote working, some individuals or couples use holiday lets as temporary residences while they work from different locations across the UK. These users often seek out properties with good Wi-Fi and comfortable workspaces.
7. Pet Owners:
   • Many holiday lets are pet-friendly, attracting pet owners who prefer to bring their pets along on holiday. This option is especially popular in rural or coastal areas where pets can enjoy outdoor activities.

Holiday lets are popular across a broad spectrum of users due to the flexibility, privacy, and often unique experiences they offer compared to traditional hotel accommodations.

Do I need to sign a holiday let agreement?

Private landlords who jump on the home-from-home bandwagon need to be aware that they must get their short-term guests to sign a holiday letting agreement. A Holiday Letting Agreement Forms part of a landlord’s raft of necessary paperwork. This is why Property Division is pleased to offer you a free agreement. Simply print off two copies, sign one and hand it to your tenants, then get your tenant or tenants to sign the other and hand that agreement to you.

However, ASTs do not cover agreements where tenants pay more than £100,000 in rent per year or when a limited company rents a residential property.

The latter often involves companies renting residential accommodation and letting the property to their employees, usually under a licence agreement (as opposed to a tenancy).

If you like a custom, completely personalised holiday let agreement, use the link below. It takes about 5 min to create, and you will end up with an agreement tailored to your specific property.

Alternatively, if you just want to download a generic holiday let tenancy agreement template, use the link below.

While the employee will usually pay rent and other costs to the landlord, ultimately the company is liable.

A Holiday Let Rental Agreement typically includes the following information:

1. Names of the landlord and tenant
2. Property address and description
3. Rent amount and payment details
4. Duration of the tenancy
5. Purpose of the tenancy (e.g. holiday letting)
6. Inventory of items provided with the property
7. Maintenance and cleaning responsibilities
8. Restrictions on the use of the property (e.g. no pets allowed)
9. Cancellation and termination conditions
10. Insurance requirements
11. Security deposit arrangements
12. Liabilities of the landlord and tenant
13. Complaints and dispute resolution procedure
14. Jurisdiction and governing law

Note: The specifics of a Holiday Let Rental Agreement (or a holiday let contract) may vary depending on the jurisdiction and local laws. It’s important to have a clear understanding of all the terms and conditions before signing the agreement.

Download this free holiday let agreement template, by clicking on the banner above.

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