Recent legislation will affect those offering self catering accommodation

Jan. 8, 2011 - PRLog -- Amends to the Equality Act came into force on the 1st October 2010 with some of the provisions affecting those who run self catering accommodation.  The most notable point, the prohibition of age discrimination in the provision of goods and services, does not come into force until 2012 but most of the Act is now law. The basic state of the law is very simple: treat everyone the same. Key points for those running self catering accommodation are set out below.

Do not discriminate against people due to sex, sexuality, disability or race. The most talked about, however, is that owners cannot state "no single-sex parties" as this is now considered discrimination. Equally there are some rather interesting developments, which holiday cottage owners (at the very least) should be aware about!

•   Indirect discrimination is also unlawful. Indirect discrimination is defined as the use of an apparently neutral practice, provision or criterion which puts people with a particular protected characteristic at a disadvantage compared with others who do not share that characteristic. For example providing free wine on arrival, without offering an alternative gift, would discriminate against people whose religion forbids the consumption of alcohol.

•   If you only let your cottage to people you like the sound of, that is almost certainly discrimination, via the ‘back door’.

•   Owners are allowed to state "No stag parties" however they must also exclude "hen parties".  However it can be difficult to enforce as there is no way of proving what the purpose of the stay really is.

•   Finally and amusingly, breastfeeding mothers are now protected when staying in a holiday cottage - you cannot ban or prohibit this natural activity or insist that it should happen in private!!

   
Chris Grimes, of Manor Cottages, based in Burford said “Aside of the possibly comical elements, the legislation must be read and understood by those renting out holiday properties, it will ensure necessary precautions are taken to avoid possible problems.” All those wishing further information should contact Manor Cottages for further details.
Manor Cottages offer a fine collection of holiday cottages and houses throughout the Cotswolds, from Stratford Upon Avon to Bath and The Wye Valley to Oxford.  For further information please visit www.manorcottages.co.uk or call 01993 824 252.

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Manor Cottages offer a fine collection of holiday cottages and houses in the Cotswolds, one of the most beautiful areas of the British Isles. Our properties are carefully selected to offer a range of style and charm to satisfy every holiday need and budget.