Skip to content

England: Westminster seeks HMRC data for short-let investigations

Flat illustration of London terraced homes with a small suitcase beside one doorway

In England, Westminster City Council wants access to HMRC information to help investigate short-term lets in the borough. A letter it published on 23 September supports a proposed data-sharing agreement between HMRC and the National Fraud Initiative. That agreement is still being discussed, and the council says it would seek access if it goes ahead.

Westminster says matching property addresses with income indicators could help it find suspected breaches of short-let controls. It has not announced a new rule for hosts. The proposal concerns how the council might identify cases for investigation.

What applies now

Westminster’s guidance says freeholders, leaseholders and tenants with their landlord’s permission can generally offer a home for short stays for up to 90 nights in a calendar year without planning permission. Council-leased property is an exception; lease terms may also prohibit short letting. The council says it investigates reports of suspected breaches of the 90-night limit.

If you let a property for short stays in Westminster, keep a clear count of nights let and read the council’s short-term let guidance. Check any lease terms and permissions for that property. Our England holiday-let guide covers the wider rules, including the planned national register; this local data-sharing request does not bring that register into force.

Sources

Related Posts

Making tax digital landlords house style

Making Tax Digital: preparations before the April 2026 start

Making Tax Digital for Income Tax was due to begin for the first group of landlords on 6 April 2026. This March report explains the preparation discussed at the time. The September update corrects later thresholds and links to the current guide.

Illustrated rented houses and landlord reviewing property papers in a flat editorial neighbourhood style.

Warm Homes announcements: grants and home improvements

The government’s Warm Homes announcements included support for home energy improvements and updated guidance for England’s locally delivered grant. Eligible privately rented homes can be included, subject to the scheme’s requirements.

Illustrated residential buildings and landlord reviewing compliance papers in a flat editorial style.

Government proposes stronger construction-product safety rules

The government published a Construction Products Reform White Paper as part of its response to the Grenfell Tower Inquiry. It proposed stronger safety requirements and oversight for products used in buildings, with consultation and legislation to follow.