More rules for short rentals

Next week the Tourism Ministry is putting up for consultation a bill introducing a framework of regulatory specifications for the operation of apartments and houses as short-term rental accommodation.

The action comes in the context of the government’s policy to create a framework for healthy competition between short-term rentals and hotels and mainly to increase the number of available homes for long-term rental, in order to address the housing crisis in the capital and other urban centers.

For the first time, an intervention is being attempted, beyond the tax framework, which is currently the only reason for which these properties can be inspected. Now the ministry will obtain inspection responsibilities, which will be related to health, safety and other parameters. Essentially, specific requirements are to be set that must be met by properties available for short-term rental, as well as the minimum level of services provided, such as cleaning.

The bill was presented to the cabinet on October 31 by Minister Olga Kefalogianni and since then almost all of the legal technical details have been finalized, while the necessary consultation with the relevant ministries has also taken place.

According to what was announced on Thursday, on the sidelines of the presentation of financial support actions for the upgrade of the Greek tourism product, alternative forms of tourism, the digital transformation of the sector and the upgrade of infrastructure with a total budget of 237 million euros, properties available for short-term lease will henceforth acquire specific operating and safety specifications.

At the same time, the monitoring of compliance with these specifications is being established, as well as the corresponding sanctions. For example, the properties must have insurance against civil liability for damages or accidents that may be caused, a sworn statement from an electrician, fire extinguishers and smoke detectors, a cutoff relay or anti-electric shock relay, escape signs, a certificate of disinfection, a first-aid kit, as well as a guide with emergency telephone numbers. They must also be located in areas of primarily residential use and have natural lighting, ventilation and air conditioning.

Source: https://www.ekathimerini.com/economy/1254147/more-rules-for-short-rentals/