People planning to host motorsport visitors this year are being warned they must register.

The Department for Enterprise says anyone who doesn’t officially sign up for Homestay for the TT and Festival of Motorcycling periods will not have access to the tax-free limit on income.

During these periods hosts can earn up to ?1,800 tax-free.

The registration process includes quality, fire and hygiene checks to ensure the property is safe and welcoming for visitors.

Carl Kinvig is a senior fire and safety officer at the Isle of Man Fire Rescue: "A room can become fully involved in a fire in as little as four minutes and two to three breaths of smoke can render someone unconscious.

"Therefore not adhering to fire safety standards can have very serious consequences for both the owner and their guests.

"Also depending on the number of guests you have or their location within your property, you may require a Fire Certificate to operate.

"Failure to do so could result in a potential prosecution which could leave you facing a fine or even imprisonment. Not registering is simply a risk not worth taking."

Anyone who wishes to register should contact MiQuando, which operates the scheme on behalf of government, by e-mailing hosts@iomhomestay.com or by calling 01624 640393.

The registration process also includes access to the department’s Public Liability insurance.

Angela Byrne is the head of tourism: "This means that if a visitor is injured whilst staying in your property and they decide that you were somehow negligent, they have the option to bring an action against you. 

"If you are registered with the scheme the department’s Public Liability insurance policy will respond and deal with the claim."