Inspections by Tourism Service on Airbnb properties

The public consultation on the bill regarding the specifications for accommodations known as Airbnb concluded last night (Thursday, December 19). Fewer than 200 participated, with many of those expressing opinions stating that the establishment of regulations favours hoteliers.

The bill does not address spatial or urban planning issues, as these fall outside the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Tourism. Thus, matters relating to the character of towns and cities and the impact of economic activities on them remain open, with the Ministries of Development and Environment taking the lead.

As for the specifications for properties rented on a short-term basis, they must:

1. Be primary residential spaces under Article 2, paragraph 95 of Law 4067/2012 (A’ 79) and have natural lighting, ventilation and air conditioning.
2. Have liability insurance to cover damages or accidents that may occur.
3. Include safety provisions, such as a certified electrician's declaration, fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, a circuit breaker, anti-electrocution relay and emergency exit signs.
4. Provide pest control certification, a first-aid kit and a guide with emergency contact numbers.

Inspections by the Ministry of Tourism

To ensure compliance with these specifications, on-site inspections will be conducted at properties listed on the special platform of the Independent Public Revenue Authority (AADE) by officials from the Ministry of Tourism and joint inspection teams with staff from AADE and the Ministry of Tourism.

Property managers face an administrative fine of €5,000 if they refuse entry for inspections or fail to meet the required specifications.

If a follow-up inspection within one year of the initial fine reveals non-compliance, the fine will be doubled. For subsequent violations of the same nature, the fine will be quadrupled.

GIORGOS KATSAITIS