Thinking of Airbnb-ing a leasehold flat in York? You’re not alone. With York’s strong tourism demand, many flat owners explore short-term letting — but leasehold properties come with extra rules and risks.

At Pass the Keys York, we help local owners understand what’s possible before they list, ensuring their property is compliant, profitable, and stress-free.

The short answer

You can Airbnb a leasehold flat in York — but only in certain circumstances.

Your ability to legally short-let depends on:

• The wording of your lease agreement

• Whether freeholder consent is required (and granted)

• York City Council planning rules

• Your mortgage and insurance terms

Skipping any of these checks can lead to enforcement action, legal disputes, or problems when selling your property.

Why leasehold flats are more complex

Most flats in York are leasehold, meaning:

• You own the flat

• The freeholder owns the building and land

• Your rights are controlled by the lease

Unlike freehold houses, leasehold flats often include restrictions designed to protect other residents — and short-term letting is one of the most common areas of conflict.

What your lease may say about Airbnb

Every lease is different, but most fall into one of these categories:

1. Short-term letting is clearly prohibited

If your lease includes phrases such as:

• “No holiday lettings”

• “No short-term or serviced accommodation”

• “Private residence only”

➡️ Airbnb is not permitted, unless the lease is formally varied (which is uncommon and costly).

2. Residential use only (grey area)

Many York leases state the property must be used as a:

• “Single private dwelling”

• “Residential property only”

While some owners assume short stays still count as residential use, freeholders and managing agents increasingly view Airbnb as commercial activity, particularly when stays are frequent.

➡️ This is where disputes often arise.

3. Subletting allowed (with conditions)

Some leases allow subletting:

• With freeholder consent

• Or subject to specific conditions

➡️ This offers the best chance of approval, but short-term lets are still not automatically allowed.

Do you need freeholder permission?

In most cases, yes.

Even where leases are unclear, freeholders may refuse consent due to:

• Insurance and liability concerns

• Security of communal areas

• Noise and disturbance risks

• Complaints from other residents

Operating Airbnb without consent can result in:

• Breach of lease notices

• Legal action

• Forced closure of the listing

• Issues during sale or remortgage

York City Council & planning considerations

York is one of the UK’s most tourism-heavy cities, and the council closely monitors short-term lets.

Important points to note:

• Full-time short-term letting may require planning consent

• Occasional letting of your main residence is generally lower risk

• Each case is assessed individually

Lease compliance does not override planning rules — both must be satisfied.

Mortgage and insurance checks

These are often missed — but critical.

Mortgages

Most residential mortgages:

• Do not automatically allow Airbnb

• Require lender consent

Insurance

Standard contents or buildings insurance often:

• Excludes holiday or serviced accommodation

• Becomes invalid if guests stay frequently

Failing to update these can leave you uninsured.

How Pass the Keys York helps leasehold owners

We work with leasehold flat owners across York who want a compliant, low-risk way to short-let.

Our local team, led by Sam March, supports you with:

• Pre-listing lease and risk assessment

• Advice on freeholder and agent conversations

• Guest screening and behaviour management

• Dynamic pricing to maximise income

• Professional cleaning and maintenance

• Local, on-the-ground support

Our focus is not just higher income — it’s protecting your property and peace of mind.

Is Airbnb worth it for leasehold flats in York?

Airbnb can work well for leasehold flats when:

• The lease allows it (or consent is granted)

• Letting is structured carefully

• Guest behaviour is well managed

• Compliance is prioritised

Poorly managed listings are far more likely to attract complaints and enforcement.

FAQs: Airbnb & Leasehold Flats in York

Can you legally Airbnb a leasehold flat in York?

Yes, but only if your lease allows short-term letting or you have written freeholder consent, and the use complies with York City Council planning rules. Many leasehold flats are restricted, so checks are essential before listing.

Do I need freeholder permission to Airbnb my flat in York?

In most cases, yes. Even where leases are unclear, freeholders often require consent due to insurance, security, and resident concerns. Operating without permission can result in breach notices or legal action.

Is Airbnb classed as a business use in York?

Often, yes. Frequent short-term letting is increasingly viewed as a commercial activity by freeholders, lenders, and councils, particularly when the property is not your main residence.

Can I Airbnb my main residence leasehold flat in York?

Letting your main residence occasionally is generally lower risk, but lease terms still apply. You may still need freeholder consent, and mortgage and insurance conditions must be checked.

Do leasehold Airbnbs in York need planning permission?

Some do. If a flat is used primarily for short-term letting, York City Council may consider this a material change of use requiring planning consent. Decisions are made case by case.

Will Airbnb affect my mortgage or insurance?

Yes, potentially. Many residential mortgages restrict short-term letting, and standard insurance policies often exclude holiday or serviced accommodation. Always notify your lender and insurer.

Are some York flats more suitable for Airbnb than others?

Yes. Smaller blocks, buildings with flexible leases, and properties with cooperative freeholders are generally more suitable. Professionally managed listings also tend to face fewer issues.

Speak to Pass the Keys York

If you’re unsure whether your leasehold flat can be used as an Airbnb, don’t guess.

Pass the Keys York can help you:

• Understand your lease

• Assess planning and compliance risks

• Estimate realistic earnings

• Decide whether short-term letting is right for your property

👉 Book a free consultation with Pass the Keys York today and get clear, local advice before you list