Can an Almshouse be used as a business?

[HelenSurridge]

I am updating our Residents’ Handbook and we have a section saying you cannot run a business from your home, and must not use that address as your registered business address. Does anyone know if this is a general ‘rule’ or if it is mentioned anywhere as a legal requirement? I understand issues with many visitors or deliveries etc, but just need to know if there is a legal position on this for Almshouses. Thanks

[William Clemmey]

Provided your governing deeds do not exclude residents from running a business then I would not see it as a problem.
We have had accountants and an antiques dealer ( his shop was elsewhere but he did store goods in his flat)
You would need to establish what income the business is bringing in so as to ensure that the resident still meets the Financial criteria (ie not too rich)
I guess it also depends on type of business and ensuring it’s not a nuisance to other residents

William Clemmey
Chiefofficer@municipal-charities.org.uk

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