Propertymark has urged ministers in Northern Ireland to create a distinct regulatory category for short-term private rented accommodation as part of a planned overhaul of tourist accommodation rules.
In its response to a Department for the Economy consultation, the professional body said reforms to the framework governing tourist accommodation must reflect the “unique characteristics” of short-term lets and avoid imposing hotel-style requirements on residential-style properties.
The consultation proposes updates to the regime established under the Tourism (Northern Ireland) Order 1992, with the aim of modernising standards to reflect changes in the market since the last review in 2011.
Four key changes are proposed: updated minimum standards across all tourist accommodation; a new statutory category of “Alternative Accommodation” for structures such as glamping pods and treehouses; revised Visitors Register requirements and clearer Display of Charges rules to improve pricing transparency.
DIFFERENT FUNCTIONS
While broadly supportive of modernisation, Propertymark’s response focuses on the treatment of short-term lets – properties that might otherwise operate within the private rented sector but are instead let to visitors.
Currently classified as “self-catering establishments”, these homes often function differently from traditional holiday cottages or hotels.
Many are former or future long-term rentals, frequently managed by professional letting agents, and may be occupied for extended stays by people relocating for work or between property transactions.
Propertymark argues that short-term private rented accommodation “sits between tourism and the private rented sector” and warrants its own statutory category.
It says this would improve clarity, enhance compliance and ensure regulation is proportionate.
CHECK-IN ARRANGEMENT
The body has also raised concerns about proposed reception requirements, warning that many short-term lets rely on digital check-in systems or key safes and do not have a physical reception. It has called for confirmation that tenancy agreements can constitute a valid check-in arrangement.
Further issues include linen washing obligations for longer stays and clearer wording around who – landlord or agent – is responsible in emergencies.
Propertymark said it supports greater transparency through updated Visitors Register and Display of Charges rules, but stressed that reforms must strike the right balance between raising standards and avoiding unnecessary burdens on operators.
