How renting out homes at half-term can avoid frozen pipes

UK: The growing trend for people in the UK to be renting out their homes when they are on holiday is set to rise this half-term as homeowners realise there are more benefits than just the money they earn from the letting.

With the average cost of weather-related insurance claims for burst pipes averaging £10,000, the UK Short Term Accommodation Association [STAA] has highlighted the maintenance, security and financial benefits homeowners can benefit from by having their property occupied, especially during the freezing weather that is excepted to hit the UK in the next week or so:

1. Avoiding burst pipes and boiler breakdowns by keeping the heating on for guests
2. Higher levels of security, reducing the risk of burglary
3. Having post and deliveries accepted
4. Earning extra money to help cover the winter energy bills

UK homeowners are increasingly making their homes pay their way. Those who do rent out their homes for short periods earn on average £3,160 a year.

Merilee Karr, CEO of UnderTheDoormat and chair of industry body STAA, said: “The sharing revolution is not always about the bottom line, so it’s no surprise to hear hosts recognising the additional benefits, especially in the colder months.

“80 percent of Airbnb hosts in the UK rent out only the home they live in and keeping those homes warm during the winter months can help avoid frozen pipes and boilers breakdowns as well as generating extra cash to cover the winter energy bills.

“We want more UK homeowners to benefit from the positive impacts of hosting. The STAA is here to help those people with advice and guidance.

“We know that the popularity of short-term renting is going to grow and want to ensure that this happens responsibly,” added Karr.

The STAA offers host membership for £10 per month which includes information about hosts’ legal responsibilities, best practice and a code of conduct.

For more information, visit the STAA website here.