Actions to be taken by Member States – Airbnb welcomed the decision
The European Union is institutionalizing the new rules for short-term rentals, which it has announced, with the expectation that this way there will be greater transparency and control in real estate listings on the platforms.
As it states tornosnews.gr, the European Parliament’s Internal Market and Consumer Protection Committee approved the new rules on Tuesday with 31 votes in favor and one abstention. With the new institutional framework, Member States will have to create a single digital entry point, to receive data from the platforms about the activity of property owners (e.g. specific address, corresponding registration number, URL of the listing) , in a monthly basis.
The Commission will be tasked with simplifying procedures for online platforms, to exchange data and ensure interoperability of systems. Aggregated data will be used to compile statistics and formulate policies.
MEPs also included amendments to improve public access to information and to allow public authorities, online platforms, hosts and citizens to better understand the new rules. Member states will have 18 months to adapt their registration systems and set up the relevant infrastructure.
The approved negotiating mandate will have to be confirmed by the full Parliament at the October 2-5 plenary session. After that, negotiations can begin with the Council, which has already approved its position. The new rules will require a simple, online registration process for short-term rental homes in a European Register.
MEPs also strengthened the obligations for online platforms, which should ensure that the information provided by hosts is reliable and complete and that their registration number is clearly visible in the directory. According to the Digital Services Act, platforms should conduct regular random checks on listings and remove non-compliant listings.
Airbnb welcomes the decision
For its part, Airbnb with its announcement welcomes the European Parliament’s decision to introduce regulations on short-term rentals in Europe. Airbnb has led the call for an EU-wide regulatory approach that is clearer, simpler and more consistent across the region, the statement said. The platform points out that it has worked with individual authorities on smart rules in countries such as France, Greece and the Netherlands, and that disproportionate local rules exclude many Europeans from the opportunities offered by hospitality.
According to the European Parliament, short-term rentals – booked through platforms such as Airbnb – account for 25% of tourist accommodation in the EU. Therefore, the policies implemented must encourage short-term rental services while respecting local communities. However, there should not be divergent local rules, leading to market fragmentation in the EU.
