Running a holiday let? Thinking about adding a hot tub? You’re not alone. A hot tub can attract more bookings, justify higher rates, and give your property that extra appeal.
But you can’t just pick any hot tub and call it a day. You need the right one — not just for your guests, but to stay on the right side of the law.
So what’s suitable for your setup?
1. Single Property Hot-Tub
As your holiday let only ever hosts a single group at a time (one family or one booking), then you can usually use a domestic tub. Dont make it to fancy or complicated to use, as this will just add to problems down the line.
The tub has to meet specific health and safety rules under HSG282, which covers hot tubs in commercial settings like holiday lets.
Here’s what to look for:
• Enough seats – The number of seats in the hot tub must be equal to or greater than your property’s berth (sleeping) capacity. Got a lodge that sleeps 6? Your hot tub needs at least 6 seats.
• Water volume – The tub should hold at least 250 litres per person. So for 6 people, that’s 1,500 litres minimum.
• Fast filtration – The hot tub must be able to circulate and filter all its water within 15 minutes. This keeps the water clean and safe.
• In-line sanitiser – It needs a built-in system that automatically feeds sanitiser tablets into the water.
• Extra cleaning system – A UV or Ozone system is ideal. It gives the water an extra pass through sanitising treatment.
• No air blower (unless purged) – Air blowers can harbour bacteria unless the system automatically clears itself out every 12 hours.
• Avoid waterfalls – These can create stagnant water inside the plumbing if they can be turned off, which becomes a contamination risk.
• Quick drainage – You’ll need to drain the hot tub between each guest stay or once a week, whichever comes first. A model that drains fast makes this easier.
2. What Happens If You Get It Wrong?
It’s not just a case of a murky tub or unhappy guests.
If your hot tub doesn’t meet the requirements, and someone gets ill, you could be held liable. The HSE (Health and Safety Executive) can investigate, and fines or closure are real risks.
3. Don’t Guess — Ask
Not sure if your setup counts as domestic or commercial?
Talk to a trusted hot tub dealership. They’ll ask the right questions and help you choose the right tub for your setup.
Better yet, choose a supplier who understands HSG282 and has experience fitting hot tubs in holiday lets.
4. Final Tips Before You Buy
• Choose a reliable brand – Look for models built for heavy use and easy servicing.
• Check access – Can the hot tub be delivered and installed easily at your property?
• Think about maintenance – Who’s cleaning, draining, and testing the water between guests?
• Winter use? – Make sure the tub is properly insulated if guests will use it year-round.
• Hot tub cover – You’ll need one that’s lockable and easy for guests to remove and replace.
• Noisy and Vibration – We all know hot-tubs are not quiet, however when your in bed and the hot-tub cycles, you don’t want it being to loud, or have strong vibrations that it wakes you guest up every time.
We hope this helps.