Spare room guest stays

Holidaymakers, visiting relatives of locals, contractors working nearby, and people attending local events or weddings.

A fixed price per night, sometimes with extra for breakfast or a longer stay. Income depends on how many nights the room is booked.

• Friendly and welcoming
• Keeping a room spotless
• Clear communication with guests

• Check your lease, mortgage terms and home insurance allow paying guests
• Check with your council about planning permission and any local rules on short-term lets
• Fire safety and smoke alarms in the guest room
• If you serve breakfast, check whether you need to register as a food business with your council
• Tell HMRC about the income; the rent-a-room scheme may apply, so check the current rules

Estimates suggest startup costs are typically around £200 to £1,500, depending on how much you spend on bedding, furnishings, safety equipment and any extras for guests.

Estimates suggest monthly revenue is typically around £300 to £1,500, depending on your prices and how often the room is booked. The estimates assume at least about 3 hours a week.

Check your lease, mortgage terms and home insurance allow paying guests, and ask your council about planning permission and short-term let rules. Also check fire safety, food registration if serving breakfast, and HMRC rules, including the rent-a-room scheme.