TV Licensing

TV Licensing reminds hotel owners to make sure they’re licensed

With UK getaways more popular than ever before, hotels are anticipating a busy March this year due to an early Easter break. Before the early-season rush for rooms gets into full swing, TV Licensing is appealing to accommodation providers across the UK to make sure they are correctly licensed.

In the past year, the popularity of domestic travel has soared, as nearly seven in ten consumers (68 per cent) took at least one UK holiday. Local package deals have kept consumers close to home, with almost a quarter (24 per cent) taking a package holiday in the UK in 2014, up from 12 per cent in 2011.

Budget hotels, boutique B&Bs, luxury spa resorts or serviced apartments must all be covered by a TV Licence if guests - or staff - are watching live TV as it’s broadcast.

For many smaller hotels and guesthouses, the cost of a TV Licence is £145.50 a year, the same amount as a private house. Hotels with more than 15 rooms are covered by one licence for the first 15 rooms, but will need an additional licence for every five rooms there after.

Jason Hill, spokesperson for TV Licensing said:

The Easter Bank Holiday weekend is one of the first big months in the hospitality calendar and it’s the manager’s responsibility to make sure the business is correctly licensed. Don’t risk a court prosecution and fine of up to £1,000 per offence, plus costs.

According to research among business owners, long-term business reputation is more important than any gains made by cutting corners, particularly when it comes to keeping on the right side of the law.

Peter Ducker FIH, Chief Executive of the Institute of Hospitality, added:

Hospitality operators will want to make the most of the busy holiday season. Making sure your business is fully compliant with the law, and that you hold a TV licence, is an important mark of your professionalism.

Buying a licence is easy, and hoteliers can pay using BACS electronic transfer. For more information about TV Licensing requirements for hotels and accommodation providers, call the TV Licensing businesses team on 0300 790 6112 or visit www.tvlicensing.co.uk/businessinfo.