Short-let rules, licences and tax in Gibraltar: what owners should check

1. Are you allowed to short-let at all?

• Read your title deeds or lease. Many Gibraltar leases restrict use to residential occupation and some prohibit lettings under a minimum term.
• Check the building's rules. Estate management companies in developments such as Ocean Village, Marina Bay, Midtown and Kings Wharf set their own policies on short lets, guest access, key handover and use of shared facilities.
• If the property is mortgaged, check the lender's consent conditions.
• If you rent rather than own, you need your landlord's written permission.

2. Licensing and registration

Requirements for tourist accommodation and business registration can change, and the answer depends on how you structure the activity — as an individual owner, or through a company. Confirm the current position directly with the Government of Gibraltar before you list.

Government of Gibraltar

3. Tax on rental income

Rental income is generally taxable, and the treatment differs depending on whether you hold the property personally or through a company, and on your own residence status. Keep clean records from day one: gross booking revenue, platform fees, management commission, cleaning, utilities, repairs and furnishings.

Confirm your obligations and any allowable deductions with the Income Tax Office or a Gibraltar accountant.

Gibraltar Income Tax Office

4. Insurance and safety

• A standard residential policy usually does not cover paying guests. Tell your insurer exactly what you are doing and get short-let cover in writing.
• Make sure you have public liability cover.
• Fit and test smoke alarms; fit a carbon monoxide alarm where there is any fuel-burning appliance.
• Have gas and electrical installations checked by a qualified engineer and keep the certificates.
• Keep a fire blanket in the kitchen and clear exit information in the property.

5. Guest records and data

Keep a record of who stayed and when, store guest data securely, and delete it when you no longer need it. If you use a manager, ask how they handle guest identification and data retention.

Ask us how we handle compliance