Is Generation Rent Coming for Second Homes and Airbnbs?
What Short-Term Landlords Need to Know
This week, the housing lobby group Generation Rent broadened its sights — not just on private landlords, but squarely on second-home owners and Airbnb-style hosts, claiming these properties are squeezing local housing markets and lifting rents for long-term renters. link>>>
What’s the Campaign Really About?
At its core, Generation Rent argues that a growing number of homes are being shifted out of the long-term rental market and into either second homes or short-term holiday lets like Airbnbs. Their research shows that in hotspot areas, tens of thousands of homes have already been lost from the permanent rental pool, pushing up rent and cutting local residents out of their communities. link >>>
They’re now calling on the Government and local councils to take action by:
- Giving councils real powers to license and cap holiday lets so they don’t dominate neighbourhoods,
- Stopping the loss of residential housing stock to the tourist sector, and
- Doing more to protect long-term renters from skyrocketing rents.
Why This Matters to You as a Short-Term Let Owner
Let’s call it like it is — you’re not doing anything illegal by offering short-term stays in your property. But Generation Rent’s position reflects a wider political and social pressure:
- Growing scrutiny of short-term lets — watchdog groups argue these reduce housing supply for locals, particularly in tourist hotspots where seasonal demand is high.
- Calls for local licensing — councils could be empowered to require holiday lets to register, and potentially cap the number that can operate in an area.
- Talk of tighter rules — if local licensing becomes widespread, some hosts may face more red tape or fees tied to short-term letting.
Keep Your Head on Straight
Here’s the honest truth: campaign groups like Generation Rent are shaping public debate, and politicians watch where public pressure builds. This doesn’t mean every host is in the firing line, but it does mean you should be aware of where policy conversations are going:
- Track local council proposals about holiday let licensing — be ready to respond or engage rather than be surprised.
- Stay compliant and transparent in how you operate your Airbnb or holiday property.
- Know the difference between short-term let benefits and housing supply concerns; having data and clear community communication can help defend your position where needed.
Wrapping It Up
Generation Rent’s attack on second homes and short-term lets isn’t just noise — it’s part of a broader housing debate playing out across the UK. Landlords and holiday-let hosts alike need to stay sharp: understand the arguments, understand the policy terrain, and make sure you’re prepared to justify your business as part of thriving local economies — not a drain on the housing stock.
