If you own or manage short-term rental property in Wales, significant regulatory changes are heading your way. The Welsh Government is introducing a mandatory registration scheme for all visitor accommodation, with registration opening in autumn 2026. Here’s a clear breakdown of what’s changing, who’s affected, and what you should be doing right now to prepare.

Who Needs to Register?

The new requirement applies to anyone who charges guests to stay overnight in Wales. This covers all paid visitor accommodation, including holiday cottages, spare rooms, cabins, campsites, and hotels. It doesn’t matter whether your property is let for a single night, occasionally, seasonally, or year-round. Registration with the Welsh Revenue Authority will be mandatory, and properties will need to be registered before they can be lawfully marketed or let as visitor accommodation once the system goes live.

If you operate short-term or holiday lets in Wales, you should assume your property falls within scope unless the Welsh Government confirms specific exemptions, and if you’re stil unsure, we offer non-exhaustive airbnb management in Cardiff.

What Information Will You Need to Provide?

The register will be digital and centrally managed by the Welsh Revenue Authority. When registration opens, accommodation providers will need to supply:

• Contact details — your name and how to reach you as the property owner or operator.
• Accommodation address — the full address of each property being let.
• Type of accommodation — whether it’s a flat, cottage, room, or other format.
• Guest capacity — how many people can stay at the property.
• Availability patterns — when the accommodation is usually open for bookings.

What’s the Difference Between Registration and Licensing?

Registration in autumn 2026 is the first step, creating a publicly available directory of visitor accommodation across Wales. A separate licensing scheme, expected to begin in 2029, will go further. To obtain a licence, landlords will need to demonstrate their property is fit for visitors by providing gas and electrical safety certificates, carbon monoxide alarms, public liability insurance, and evidence of a completed fire safety risk assessment with relevant precautions taken.

What Should You Do Now?

Although registration doesn’t open until autumn 2026, preparation now will save you stress later. Make sure your ownership details and property addresses are accurate and up to date, as this information will be required at registration. Start gathering your safety documentation ahead of the licensing requirements too — even though licensing sits further down the timeline, having certificates in order demonstrates compliance readiness and protects your investment.

How EasierManagement Can Help

Navigating regulatory changes whilst running a profitable short-term let doesn’t have to be overwhelming. We handle the operational complexities of property management across the South West, giving you a completely hands-off experience whilst keeping your property compliant and your income optimised. From guest communications and cleaning coordination to financial reporting and compliance support, we’ve got you covered. 

Contact us today for your free property valuation and discover how we make property management genuinely easier.