Islington is one of London’s most sought-after boroughs, known for its vibrant cultural scene, historic streets, and bustling restaurants and shops. With its proximity to the West End, major transport links, and tourist attractions, many property owners are exploring short-term lets as a way to generate additional income.

However, before listing your property on Airbnb, Booking.com, or other short-let platforms, it’s essential to understand the local rules around registration. Islington Council has specific requirements for short-let properties, and failure to comply can result in fines, legal action, or removal of your listing.

This guide explains everything Islington hosts need to know about short-let registration numbers, the 90-day rule, planning permissions, and how to stay fully compliant while running a profitable short-let business.

Short-Let Registration in Islington: The Basics

The London-wide short-term letting rules require that any property being let for short periods (less than 90 consecutive nights per year) must comply with local regulations.

1. The Islington Short-Term Let Licensing Scheme

• Islington Council requires hosts of residential properties used for short-term lets to register with the council.

• Registration confirms that the property is safe, suitable for guests, and compliant with fire, safety, and insurance regulations.

• The scheme applies to all short-term lets, whether listed on Airbnb, Booking.com, or other platforms.

2. The 90-Day Rule

• In Greater London, there is a maximum of 90 nights per calendar year for short-term lets in a primary residence without needing planning permission.

• If you exceed this limit, you will require planning permission in addition to registration.

• Registration ensures your short-let remains legal and helps you avoid penalties for exceeding the 90-day threshold.

Why Registration is Important

1. Legal Compliance – Avoid fines or forced closure of your listing.

2. Guest Confidence – Registered properties show guests that safety and standards are met.

3. Insurance Validity – Some insurance policies only cover short-lets if the property is registered.

4. Platform Requirements – Airbnb and other platforms may require proof of local registration to list properties in Islington.

How to Register Your Short-Let in Islington

1. Check Eligibility – Confirm your property is a primary residence or meets licensing requirements for secondary properties.

2. Submit an Application – Complete Islington Council’s short-let registration form online.

3. Provide Documentation – You may need:

   • Proof of property ownership or tenancy

   • Insurance documents

   • Fire safety and electrical safety certificates

4. Pay Fees – Fees may apply depending on property type and duration of let.

5. Receive Registration Number – Display your registration number on listings and be ready to provide it to guests or platforms.

FAQ — Short-Let Registration in Islington

Q1: Is a short-let registration number mandatory in Islington?
Yes — all short-term let properties must be registered with Islington Council, even if listed for fewer than 90 nights.

Q2: What happens if I don’t register?
Non-compliance can result in fines, legal action, or removal of your listing from platforms like Airbnb.

Q3: Do I need planning permission for my short-let?
Planning permission is required if your property is let for more than 90 nights per year or is not your primary residence.

Q4: Can I rent out a single room instead of the whole property?
Yes, but the same registration rules and 90-night limit apply.

Q5: Can Pass the Keys help with registration?
Absolutely — they guide hosts through the application process, ensure documentation is correct, and maintain compliance with local regulations.

Conclusion: How Pass the Keys Helps Islington Hosts

Navigating short-let regulations in Islington can be complex. Ensuring your property is registered correctly not only keeps you compliant but also protects your guests, your income, and your property.

Pass the Keys helps Islington hosts by:

• Handling short-let registration applications and documentation

• Advising on planning permission and compliance requirements

• Managing bookings, guest communication, and property maintenance

• Ensuring your property meets safety standards and platform requirements

For property owners in Islington, working with Pass the Keys means peace of mind, legal compliance, and a professionally managed short-let business that maximises revenue without the stress.