Airbnb short-lets rules must be set locally not nationally, say agents

Propertymark is urging the Government to allow local areas to decide if they need to clampdown on holiday lets via Airbnb and other rental platforms.

The trade body has responded to the Department for Culture, Media and Sport consultation on registration options for a short-term lets licensing scheme in England.

Any scheme should not be compulsory for local authorities if they can prove they are having no impact on private rented supply in their area, Propertymark says.

Airbnb

Any legislation must be targeted to resolve specific local shortages of housing supply, it adds.

Propertymark believes that a balance must be struck between the local tourism industry and housing needs with local authorities being best placed to run the schemes and decide if they are necessary for their area.

Also, sufficient resources must be provided to prevent a scheme from being used to plug funding gaps.

Worsen supply

“We have long called for licensing schemes to bring parity between the short-term lettings (STLs) and the privately rented sector,” Propertymark says.

“Not only would this ensure STLs meet the same standards as other rented properties, but in recent years, there have been concerns that landlords moving from the private rented sector to STLs would worsen supply issues within the PRS.”

Electric charging

Meanwhile holiday rentals with EV charging capability cost an additional £134 per night, according to research by carmaker Skoda.

The average vacation listing with an EV charger costs £315 per night compared with an average price per night of £181 for those without.

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