Despite the surge in streaming services and personal devices, television remains a core amenity in hotels. Guests continue to expect access to live TV in their rooms—not just a screen for casting or streaming. For business travellers and families alike, live television offers a familiar and easily accessible form of relaxation and entertainment. No passwords to enter, no accounts to sync—just instant access to programming. Television is part of what makes a room feel complete and contributes to a more pleasant guest experience.
However, many hoteliers overlook the fact that offering television on their premises carries important legal responsibilities.
Under UK copyright law, providing television in hotels and other short-stay accommodation settings is considered a “communication to the public.” As such, it requires specific licensing. Granting guests access to copyright-protected content without the proper authorisations constitutes copyright infringement and may result in legal action.
This is where the AVLA Licence comes in. It provides the legal clearance for hotels, aparthotels, serviced apartments, B&Bs, and similar establishments to offer guests access to TV channels that include films, series, documentaries, cartoons, and other works from AVLA’s extensive repertoire.
AVLA represents the UK’s largest and most diverse community of audiovisual creators—including producers, writers, directors, performers, and visual artists. Works from AVLA’s repertoire are regularly broadcast on the main national TV channels, as well as on other networks.
It’s important to note that the AVLA Licence does not replace the licences from other organisations, and vice-versa. Each licence serves a distinct purpose and covers different rights. AVLA licences a repertoire of works and rights not licensed by other licensors.
A frequent point of confusion relates to hotel bedrooms. Some operators assume these are private spaces exempt from licensing. However, court rulings have clarified that guest bedrooms are not domestic settings. Offering access to copyright protected content qualifies as communication to the public, and thus requires authorisation.
Obtaining the AVLA Licence is easy and quick. Registration is completed online within minutes.
Beyond legal compliance, securing the AVLA Licence is also a sign of ethical business practice. Copyright laws exist to ensure that the individuals behind the content—many of whom are freelancers working project to project—receive a fair compensation. AVLA distributes the fees collected to the respective rightsholders, helping to sustain a vibrant UK creative community.
In summary, while television continues to be essential for hotels and remains a valued part of the guest experience, offering it legally requires more than simply providing a screen and a signal. The AVLA Licence helps hoteliers meet their legal obligations and uphold standards of ethical and responsible hospitality that today’s guests increasingly expect.
