With the exciting arrival of Universal Studios Bedford on the horizon, homeowners in the area are beginning to realise the potential of garage conversions as a way to earn passive income through short-term Airbnb rentals. At D Gibbs Carpentry Limited, we specialise in turning garages into stylish, fully compliant living spaces—ideal for listing on Airbnb or other rental platforms.
But before you start renting out your converted garage, it’s vital to understand the rules and regulations around short-term lets in the UK—and how they apply to your property.
📌 Why Garage Conversions Make Sense in Bedford
Bedford is about to experience a tourism boom with the proposed Universal Studios UK resort, projected to welcome up to 8.5 million visitors per year. With limited local accommodation available, your converted garage could become a valuable rental asset.
📋 Airbnb Rental Rules in the UK (as of 2025)
Before you list your property, here’s what you need to know:
1. Planning Permission
- Most garage conversions fall under permitted development if you’re simply turning it into a habitable room.
- However, if you’re creating a self-contained unit with its own entrance and facilities—especially for renting—you may need full planning permission.
- Check with Bedford Borough Council to confirm your situation.
2. Short-Term Let Registration
- The government is introducing a national registration scheme for all short-term lets in England, including Airbnb listings. This is to track and regulate the impact on housing availability.
- You may need to register your property with the local council before listing it on Airbnb or similar platforms.
- Learn more here: UK Short-Term Let Rules
3. 90-Night Rule
- In some UK locations (e.g. London), there is a 90-night annual limit for short-term lets. Bedford does not currently have this restriction, but local rules may evolve as the Universal Studios development progresses.
- If your listing exceeds 90 nights or becomes long-term, you may need to switch to an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) agreement and comply with landlord legislation.
4. Taxation
- Income from Airbnb must be declared. You may qualify for the Rent-a-Room scheme (up to £7,500 tax-free per year), but only if you’re letting a room in your main home—not a separate annexe.
- For self-contained units, you’ll need to file this income as part of your self-assessment tax return.
5. Insurance & Safety
- Standard home insurance won’t cover Airbnb use. You’ll need specific holiday let or landlord insurance.
- Your converted garage must comply with building regs, especially for fire safety, ventilation, and soundproofing. All of our conversions are fully compliant with Local Authority Building Regulations.
🔨 Why Choose D Gibbs Carpentry Limited?
We’re Bedford’s premier garage conversion experts, known for:
- Precision craftsmanship from owner David Gibbs and his experienced team of local professionals
- In-depth knowledge of local planning and building regulations
- Award-winning service with 5-star reviews on Facebook and Google
We don’t just build—you’ll get guidance every step of the way, from design to ensuring your space meets Airbnb rental rules.
💰 Turn Your Garage into a Money-Making Airbnb
Whether you have a double garage ready to become a self-contained annexe, or you’re exploring your options, now is the time to act. The Universal Studios Bedford resort will bring massive visitor numbers, and demand for high-quality, private accommodation is only going to rise.
💡 Learn how others are monetising their homes: How to Make Money on Airbnb
👋 Let’s Talk
At D Gibbs Carpentry Limited, we help you unlock the full potential of your property, legally and profitably. Click Here to find out how we can turn your garage into a stunning, rentable annexe that meets Airbnb regulations in Bedford.
📍 Based in Bedford | 🛠️ Local Knowledge | 🏆 5-Star Service
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