European Commission prepares rules to limit short-term rentals
The European Commission is expected to present a legislative proposal next week on conditions for restricting short-term tourist rentals, including through platforms such as Airbnb. The initiative is intended to help European cities respond to rising housing costs.
Restrictions in areas under housing pressure
As The Local Germany reports, citing AFP, the draft document would allow cities, regions and other competent authorities to restrict access to short-term rentals or their provision in areas under housing pressure. The purchase of property for subsequent short-term rental to tourists could also be restricted there.
The document sets out parameters for assigning such an area status, including the ratio between housing prices and residents' incomes. The proposed rules would not apply to owners who rent out their primary residence for a short period.
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Reducing legal uncertainty
In tourist hubs, including Florence and Barcelona, local authorities have already sought to restrict tourist rentals following residents' complaints about unaffordable housing. However, rental service providers and tourism industry representatives have often challenged such restrictions in court.
The initiative under the Affordable Housing Act is intended to clarify when authorities may introduce such measures without violating EU single market rules. According to Brussels, property prices in the EU have risen by 60% over the past decade, while rents have increased by 20%. The EU links the problem primarily to an insufficient housing supply, while noting that short-term rentals additionally put pressure on the market in certain areas. Airbnb said that the housing crisis requires structural solutions and an increase in housing supply.
