Hotels told to check their TV Licence

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 is broadcast.

For 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 thereafter.

Ben Craig, spokesperson for TV Licensing in London and the south east 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.

For information about TV Licensing visit tvlicensing.co.uk/businessinfo