Torbay Self-Catering Association was formed in 1965 and was originally known as the Holiday Flats & Flatlets Association. Its aim was to provide a quality assurance scheme for self caterers in Torbay, thus ensuring that its members were able to offer to all visitors the highest standards of service. The Association offers an annual inspection service, carried out in accordance with the National Minimum Quality Standards criteria for those who do not wish to participate in the Visit Britain NQAS scheme. The inspection fee structure is modest and is dependent on the size of the business. Members can display the Association logo on their premises and advertising, giving visitors and enquirers confidence that the service offered meets adequate quality standards.

 

The Association maintains links to local Tourist organisations and Regional Tourist Boards and is represented on regional tourist forums.

 

A discount scheme, run in conjunction with local businesses and attractions, offers members exclusive offers to be passed on to visitors in the form of a discount leaflet.

 

Information sharing is encouraged on internet, telephone and postal scams and illegal or antisocial behaviour. Experienced members can offer advice on all the legal aspects of holiday or winter letting.

 

General meetings are held twice a year at which a speaker will give a presentation on something of relevance to self catering businesses and information is passed on at other times by email about training, social events, business issues as they arise.

 

A complaints arbitration service can assist members to resolve disputes with tenants in the unfortunate (but rare) occasion of dissatisfaction with the services provided.

 

The Association keeps members informed of new legislation so that their members may remain compliant eg Fire Safety (Regulatory Reform Order) and of money saving options eg Small Business Rates Relief.

 

Marketing:

 

The advantage of an internet advertising presence is essential in the modern market to ensure your accommodation is noticed by online enquirers and this can be obtained at a minimal cost through membership of the Association. Links to your own website (if you have one) can be placed on the Association site together with a photograph of the accommodation, a brief description of the services offered, an email address and/or telephone number so that enquirers can easily contact you direct to make bookings. Assistance with preparing your advert is available if required and for those not connected to email, enquiries can be passed on via the Association.

 

Fire Regulations:

 

Did you know that new Fire Regulations came into force on 1 October 2006 which cover all businesses including self-catering accommodation (previously exempt from legislation)?

 

The Association has carried out a fact finding research program to clarify exactly what is now required to be sure of operating within the new law. Free advice, information and/or assistance is available as part of your membership. Devon Fire and Rescue may come knocking on your door to check your compliance at any time.

 

 

 

This will affect every one of us personally, and in the way we operate our businesses in the future. South West Tourism have linked membership of National Green Tourism Schemes with National Quality Assurance Inspections making it very expensive for small businesses to participate.

 

The Association can provide advice, information and assistance in making the necessary changes to GO GREEN and become an environmentally friendly business without the expense of joining national schemes if you would prefer not to go down that route. The changes will actually save on operating costs by increasing efficiency. We have fact sheets available and can advise on access to training courses and information for display in your premises which will help demonstrate your concern for the environment to your visitors.

 

If you are interested in becoming a member of the Torbay Self Catering Association please send your details by email to This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it  

 

DISCLAIMER NOTICE

 

The details provided are obtained from sources believed to be reliable. However the accuracy and completeness of any information cannot be guaranteed and no warranty or representation is given and members must use their own discretion on how they use this information. No liability can be accepted by TSCA or any committee member for any direct or consequential loss arising from the use of, or reliance upon, this information. The content is designed to provide you with information to help you make an informed decision and does not constitute an incitement, invitation, advice or personal recommendation.

 

The cost of an internet presence on the TSCA website is included in the annual membership subscription. It includes creating a link to your own website or creating your own page for further information if you do not have one.