Why holiday let hosts need to keep their neighbours onside

When running a holiday let property, hosts often focus on guest experience, marketing, and maximising bookings. But one crucial factor that’s often overlooked is the relationship with neighbours. In fact, establishing good rapport with the locals can make a significant difference to the success and sustainability of your short-term rental.

Here’s why getting to know your neighbours is essential – and how it can benefit both your guests and your business.

1. Neighbours are your eyes and ears

No one knows the local area better than the people who live there year-round. A good relationship with your neighbours means they can:

• Alert you to potential issues, like excessive noise or unfamiliar activity.

• Provide insights into local developments that might impact your property.

• Offer helpful suggestions to improve your guests’ experience.

  
  

Rural Stays Tip: make sure your neighbours know how to contact you if needed – and let them know you appreciate their support.

2. Prevent noise and nuisance issues

Short-term rental properties sometimes gain a bad reputation for noisy guests disrupting the peace. By engaging with your neighbours early on, you can:

• Address their concerns proactively.

• Set clear rules around noise levels and communicate these to your guests.

• Reassure your neighbours that their comfort matters to you.

  
  

Rural Stays Tip: include a "good neighbour" policy in your guest handbook and ask guests to be mindful of their surroundings. Suggest quiet times and, if necessary, stress the fact the property is in a residential area.

3. Build community goodwill

When neighbours feel considered and respected, they’re more likely to support your business. A well-run holiday let can even benefit the local community by:

• Driving footfall to nearby shops, pubs, and attractions.

• Showcasing the area's charm to visitors who may return for longer stays.

• Contributing to the local economy.

  
  

Rural Stays Tip: collaborate with neighbours on community events or initiatives to foster goodwill. For example, sponsor a page in the local parish magazine.

4. Minimise complaints and maximise support

Neighbour complaints can quickly escalate to official reports if left unresolved. Building strong relationships helps:

• Reduce the likelihood of formal complaints.

• Provide a direct line of communication to resolve issues quickly.

• Encourage neighbours to act as allies rather than adversaries.

  
  

Rural Stays Tip: if you're introducing a new holiday let, invite your neighbours for a tour and explain your approach to responsible hosting.

5. Enhance guest experience through local knowledge

Neighbours often know the hidden gems that guests love to discover. By involving your neighbours, you can:

• Get recommendations for lesser-known walking routes, cafes, or viewpoints.

• Offer guests authentic, local experiences they won’t find online.

• Show visitors that your property is part of a friendly, welcoming community.

  
  

Rural Stays Tip: share your neighbours' tips in your guest welcome guide – and give credit where it’s due!

Quick tips

1. Introduce yourself early: don’t wait for issues to arise. Introduce yourself, explain your business, and share contact details from day one.

   
   

2. Be transparent: inform neighbours if you’re making changes (e.g., adding a hot tub or expanding capacity) so they’re not caught off guard.

   
   

3. Involve them: ask for their thoughts on ways to minimise disruption or enhance the guest experience.

   
   

4. Respond to concerns quickly: if a neighbour raises a concern, take it seriously and address it promptly.

   
   

5. Show appreciation: small gestures, like a thank you card or a box of biscuits, go a long way.

   
   

The bottom line

Short-term rental properties thrive when they exist in harmony with their communities. By getting to know your neighbours, listening to their concerns, and involving them in your property’s journey, you create a win-win situation for everyone. Your guests enjoy a more authentic stay, your business gains credibility, and your neighbours feel respected – not resentful.

At Rural Stays, we believe in responsible, community-friendly holiday lets. Need more industry insights or top-tier property care? Get in touch today to see how we can support your STR success.