A website acting as a register of rooms to let for travellers has been created by a Durham University graduate.
The aim is to create an opportunity for home-owners in the UK and Ireland to let out spare rooms to paying guests.
The site – www.bedandfed.co.uk – charges home owners a £70 annual registration fee.
They then paid a maximum of £35 a night for providing “informal” dinner, bed and breakfast.
Bookings are made direct with the accommodation provider and guest reviews are encouraged on the site to help other users.
Income from B&B lettings is normally not taxable up to £4,250 under an HMRC rent a room exemption, according to the company.
Forbes said: “Having grown up in a house with endless streams of guests from all over the world, the idea of earning money by having people stay is hugely appealing.
“Bed&fed accounts for a middle market of inexpensive, friendly accommodation within the UK and Ireland which is just so easy for everyone to access.”
She added: “Bed&fed works both ways. It’s a wonderful opportunity to gain income from your spare room which is so often empty as well as a great way to keep your accommodation costs down when travelling, without reducing they quality of where you stay.
“The hassle of finding somewhere to eat is eliminated too with this friendly and flexible arrangement.”
She said that clear guidelines exist about security issues and those who introduce fellow home owners can earn 15% commission.
An introductory registration offer of £70 for 15 months is currently available.
by Phil Davies
