EU Short-Term Rental Regulation to address effects of ‘lack of basic rules’ for private short-term rentals

The Malta Business Bureau (MBB) has welcomed this week’s EU political agreement on the EU Short-Term Rental Regulation.

The boom of short-term rental services through digital platforms during the last decade has provided benefits for both private hosts and tourism in general. However, it has also raised concerns in several local communities, particularly those facing issues like affordable housing shortages.

The MBB is the EU business advisory organisation of The Malta Chamber and The Malta Hotels and Restaurants Association (MHRA). It is also a partner of the Enterprise Europe Network.

The regulation is expected to enhance data collection and sharing from hosts and online platforms. This will provide public authorities with valuable insights for developing effective and proportionate local policies to address the challenges and opportunities associated with the private short-term rental sector.

The new rules will enhance transparency regarding the identification and activities of private hosts and simplify the registration process of properties used for the purpose of short-term renting with public authorities. They will also address the current fragmentation in data sharing practices among online platforms, ultimately aiding the prevention of illegal listings.

Commenting on the news, MBB President Alison Mizzi stated this agreement marks a “significant milestone” as it addresses the negative impacts brought on by the “lack of basic rules”for private short-term rentals, the lack of transparency among online platforms, and a lack of enforcement.

“The new regulation will thus bring a more level playing field between private short-term rentals and traditional accommodation providers, should member states implement the rules rigorously and start earnestly collecting data to get a more accurate picture of the impact of private short-term rental activity, and by deploying sufficient resources to exert the necessary enforcement,” she continued.

Further information on the EU Short-Term Rental Regulation can be accessed when contacting the Bureau on infobrussels@mbb.org.mt.