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Short Lets in London: Flexible Stays and the Rules for Hosts

For people needing a flexible stay, and owners deciding between short and long lets.

Short Lets in London: Flexible Stays and the Rules for Hosts Residential Property Services in London

Updated October 2026 · Fraser Bond

Renting · Short lets

Short lets in London: guests and hosts

Weeksto months
90 nightsLondon rule
Short vs longcalculator
Managementoptions
In short: Short lets offer furnished homes for stays from a few nights to several months, usually with bills included. They suit relocations, renovations, contractors and visitors. In London, an entire home can only be let on a short-term basis for up to 90 nights a calendar year without planning permission. Owners must also check their lease, mortgage and insurance. Fraser Bond helps people find flexible homes and helps owners compare short and long lets.

Short let or tenancy?

Short letAssured periodic tenancy
Typical lengthNights to monthsOpen-ended; tenant gives 2 months' notice
FurnishingFully furnishedFurnished or unfurnished
BillsUsually includedUsually paid by tenant
Cost per monthHigherLower
RightsLicence or holiday let termsFull Renters' Rights Act protections

How short lets compare with standard tenancies

Short let vs long let income
Short let net–
Long let net (12 months)–

Short let income in London is limited by the 90-night rule unless you have planning permission. Enter your own figures.

Before offering a short let in London

How Fraser Bond can help

  • Flexible furnished homes for longer stays
  • Rental valuation to compare short and long lets
  • Long-let tenant finding and full management
  • Furnishing and preparing homes for letting

Frequently asked questions

How long can I short let my London home?

An entire home can be let short-term for up to 90 nights a calendar year without planning permission.

Are short lets more profitable?

Not always. Once the 90-night cap, fees, cleaning and empty nights are counted, a long let can earn more.

Can I find a 3-month let in London?

Yes. Short lets and serviced apartments offer stays of a few months.

Can Fraser Bond manage a long let instead?

Yes. We can value, let and manage your home.

Short let or long let?

Get a free rental valuation and compare the numbers.

Get a free valuationSpeak to our team

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