Hotel owners given TV licence reminder

TV Licensing is appealing to hotels and guest houses across the UK to make the sure they are correctly licensed.

Accommodation providers must be covered by a valid TV Licence if guests or staff are watching TV as it’s broadcast, as well as all viewers who use the iPlayer to watch any BBC programmes after new legislation came into force in September.

Hotels with more than 15 rooms are covered by one licence for the first 15 units, but will need an additional licence for every five thereafter.

Jason Hill, spokesperson for TV Licensing said: “As these figures show, the UK’s growing tourism business becoming more competitive, with hoteliers vying to provide ever greater guest satisfaction.

“Whether hotels are providing extras such as Smart TVs or TVs in the bathroom, they all need to be correctly licensed.”

Peter Ducker, chief executive of the Institute of Hospitality, added: “In-room entertainment is a vital part of the customer experience and any offering that is below-par can lead to unfavourable user reviews.

“Having a valid TV licence is obviously a necessity too. Making sure your business is fully compliant with the law is a mark of your professionalism.”