New rules intended to make rental via online platforms such as Airbnb more transparent
The European Commission has submitted a proposal for rules to provide a greater insight into rental platforms such as Airbnb. The new rules mean rental platforms must share more information with local authorities. That way, European authorities can ensure more sustainable tourism. For example, by tackling illegal rentals and formulating better policy for regions in which there is a housing shortage.
What is the situation?
The renting out of apartments and cottages for short-term rentals via platforms is becoming increasingly common. Together, all these cottages and apartments form a quarter of the total accommodation offering for tourists in the EU. In addition, the number of bookings has risen dramatically during the COVID crisis. The policy for these rental platforms varies per EU country.
The rental of accommodation offers many benefits for landlords and tourists. But there are concerns too. If a city or region is very popular, rental can lead to many problems. Because too few affordable homes remain for residents, because tourists cause a nuisance, or because accommodation is rented out illegally, for example.
Why these new rules?
It is important for authorities to assess the effect of short-term rentals. The new rules will provide greater transparency. For example, it will be clear who the landlords of short-term accommodation are and which rules they must comply with. This information will help local authorities respond to the opportunities and challenges of short-term rentals.
What are the new rules?
- It will soon be mandatory for landlords to register rental homes.
- Landlords will be given a unique registration number. That number will be visible via the booking website.
- Online platforms must share certain details with government authorities. For example, the number of overnight stays booked. That way, the authority can formulate more targeted policy.
- The statistics for short-term rentals can be used in European tourism statistics. That information can in turn contribute to the development of new tourism services.
- Member states must monitor compliance with these new rules.
Next steps
In November 2023, the European Parliament and the Council reached a deal on the the Commission's proposal. Want to know more about the plans? Read more about short-term rental on the European Commission's website. Or see an overview of the new rules on the European Parliament's website.