Taken from the Quality Standard booklet for Self-Catering Accommodation.

A quality assessment will consider the external of a property and grade each of the following areas from 1 to 5 as part of the overall score.

Appearance of buildings

The décor, maintenance and repair of the building will be assessed under this section. This includes stonework, woodwork, paintwork, gutters, fall pipes, external plumbing, chimneys and roofs. External signage attached to the building (clarity and maintenance) and lighting is taken into account here. Any outbuildings and storage areas e.g. refuse areas will be assessed here as well.Window boxes, tubs and hanging baskets attached to the building will also be assessed under this heading.

Grounds, gardens and parking

If the property has no grounds, gardens or parking this section is not assessed. Assessment of this area will include garden areas, garden furniture, hedges, paths, driveways, parking and all other areas within the boundaries of the property which are visible from the property or which guests have access to and which are under control of the owner.

Advice

First impression is important, so grounds, gardens parking and driveways should be kept as weed free and tidy as possible. Consider the market your property serves; for families, formal flower beds and ponds may not be suitable and grass may need to be a more resilient variety. Couples, however, may appreciate colourful, well-stocked gardens.Where properties are situated close together or close to the owner’s property, guests may prefer some kind of screening in an attempt to provide privacy.Where wild & domestic animals are free to wander, guests may enjoy this aspect, but may not enjoy the mess they leave behind.

Environment and setting

A reflection of the positive or negative aspects of the location of the property and surrounding area that could affect the guests’ comfort. Personal preference is avoided. Consideration will be given to efforts made to overcome a poor environment by screening or banking to reduce any unsightly outlook and noise e.g. double glazing. The approach to the property from the road is also taken with account.

Find out more at the Quality in Tourism website or read our articles about Quality Assessments.