Westminster’s New Crackdown on Short-Term Lets: What London Landlords Must Do Now

The New Enforcement Landscape for Short-Term Lets in Westminster

Westminster Council’s recently elected Conservative leadership has announced plans for a sharp crackdown on short-term lettings, explicitly targeting breaches of the legally mandated 90-day annual limit for short-term rentals across London. This announcement follows evidence of widespread non-compliance, including concerning cases where council-owned properties have been improperly listed on platforms like Airbnb.

The council is calling for greater cooperation from short-let platforms to ensure that ineligible properties are removed swiftly and that data sharing between local authorities is enhanced. This approach signals a more proactive and coordinated enforcement strategy that landlords in Westminster—and potentially other London boroughs—cannot afford to ignore.

Why This Matters to Landlords

Under the London-wide regulation, private landlords can only rent out their properties on a short-term basis for a maximum of 90 nights per calendar year without requiring planning permission. Breaching this limit can result in enforcement notices, fines, and reputational damage. For landlords with multiple properties or those operating HMOs, keeping track of cumulative short-let days is critical.

Westminster’s intensified scrutiny increases the risk of enforcement action, especially for landlords who may have been operating near or beyond the 90-day threshold or listing council-owned or otherwise ineligible properties. Accidental landlords—those who may have listed a property to cover mortgage costs without full awareness of the rules—are particularly vulnerable.

Practical Implications and Immediate Steps

1. Conduct a Comprehensive Portfolio Audit:

• Review all properties currently listed on short-let platforms.
• Confirm that no council-owned or lease-restricted properties are being offered.
• Track the total number of nights each property has been let on a short-term basis in the current calendar year.

2. Remove Ineligible Listings Promptly:

• Immediately delist any council-owned or otherwise ineligible properties to avoid enforcement.
• Where properties are approaching the 90-night limit, plan to cease short-term lettings to stay compliant.

3. Engage Proactively with Platforms:

• Contact Airbnb, Booking.com, and other platforms to confirm your compliance status.
• Request assistance in monitoring listing durations and receive notifications as you approach limits.

4. Monitor Council Updates and Data Sharing Initiatives:

• Stay alert to Westminster Council’s announcements regarding data sharing and enforcement actions.
• Consider subscribing to local authority communications or landlord forums for timely updates.

5. Prepare for Increased Enforcement:

• Keep detailed records of short-let bookings, including dates and guest details.
• Consult legal or compliance experts if unsure about your status or obligations.

Tailoring Actions to Different Landlord Profiles

• Single-Unit Landlords: Focus on strict adherence to the 90-day limit and ensure clear records.
• HMO Operators: Be aware that short-term letting HMOs may require additional permissions; review lease terms carefully.
• Portfolio Landlords: Implement a centralised tracking system for all short-let properties to avoid cumulative breaches.
• Accidental Landlords: Seek advice promptly to understand your liabilities and remedial steps.

What Next for London Landlords?

This development represents a clear signal that local authorities are ramping up enforcement of short-let regulations. Landlords should treat this as an opportunity to review and tighten their compliance processes now rather than facing costly penalties later.

Start by scheduling a thorough compliance review of your short-let operations this month. Reach out to letting platforms and ensure your listings and booking records are accurate and up to date. If necessary, consult specialist advisors to audit your portfolio and implement robust monitoring systems.

How Rentals & Sales Can Support You

Our expert team offers tailored portfolio reviews and compliance audits to help you navigate the complex landscape of short-term lettings. We can assist in developing practical workflows for booking tracking, advise on lease and planning permission implications, and support communications with letting platforms and local authorities. Contact us to schedule your compliance health check and safeguard your rental income.

Compliance Disclaimer: This article provides general information and is not legal advice. Landlords should consult professional advisers for guidance specific to their circumstances.