If you own premises that are only let to holidaymakers on a holiday rent basis, or on a short-term let such as Airbnb, you have the right to move the occupiers out at the end of their rental period if they do not leave. This can be done without having to go to court due to the fact holiday lets and short-term rentals are amongst the few exceptions under the Protection from Eviction Act 1977.
It may be that during the rental you find the booking was fraudulently made and monies are clawed back by the card company if the guests create a disturbance or otherwise breach instance, you can also act without going to court. It could also be that the guests simply refuse to leave at the end of the rental period.
Frequently Asked Questions
1 Can someone be evicted from an Air B&B or holiday home?
Yes, individuals can be evicted from a holiday home if they breach the terms of their rental agreement or fail to follow the property’s rules. Reasons may include non-payment, property damage, or disruptive behaviour.
2 What are valid reasons for evicting someone from a holiday home or Air B&B?
Valid reasons include:
- Non-payment of the agreed rental amount.
- Causing damage to the property or its contents.
- Engaging in illegal activities on the premises.
- Violating specific rules outlined in the rental agreement, such as exceeding guest limits or bringing unauthorized pets.
- Overstaying the agreement period
3 Does a landlord need a court order to evict someone from a holiday home or Air B&B?
In most cases, a court order is not required to evict someone from a holiday home because it is a short-term rental agreement rather than a tenancy. However, the property owner must follow the terms of the agreement and provide appropriate notice before asking the guests to leave.
4 Is a notice period required to evict someone from a holiday home?
Landlords should give notice telling the occupants to leave and stating the reasons why. The notice period depends on the terms of the rental agreement. For serious breaches, immediate eviction may be justified, while minor issues may require a written warning and a reasonable notice period.
5 What should I do if a guest overstays their booking on Air B&B or their Holiday Let?
If a guest refuses to leave after their booking ends, you should:
- Contact Airbnb immediately to report the situation.
- Avoid direct confrontation and seek support from Airbnb’s resolution team.
- If the guest continues to overstay, and Air B&B are unable to help seek professional guidance from Essex Bailiffs on how to remove them.
Hints & Tips
Review your cancellation policy
Check your cancellation policy to understand the terms and conditions for cancellations and refunds.
Communicate with the guest
Try to resolve any issues or concerns through communication.
Document the evidence
Keep records of any communications with the guest, photographs or other evidence of damage or contract breaches, and any actions you have taken to address the situation.
Act Quickly
Once it becomes clear there is a need to terminate the reservation or remove the occupants, serve notice of termination or to quit immediately.
Essex Bailiffs are experts in the field of eviction from short-term lets and holiday properties. Our enforcement agents will attend with a locksmith, change the locks, and oversee the departure of the former guests, ensuring the property is returned to you professionally. Promptly.
AboutCall Essex Bailiffs
If the guest refuses to leave, you are likely to need professional assistance.