Airbnb Backs Government Plan to End ‘No Fault’ Evictions
Airbnb is backing the government plan to end ‘no fault’ evictions
In a bid to give renters more protection, Airbnb is backing the government’s plan to end Section 21 evictions, a move which aims to stop landlords forcing tenants out of properties and turning them into short-term holiday lets.
The platform is also committed to investigating cases of tenants being unfairly evicted from their property which are then advertised on Airbnb.
Airbnb general manager for Northern Europe, Amanda Cupples, says long-term housing should be protected and ending ‘no fault’ evictions would ensure this is the case for communities.
Policing the sector
The move would also enable Airbnb to better police the sector which says it already removes landlords from the site if tenants have been unlawfully evicted. Cupples says Airbnb was also ready to administer ‘tourist taxes’, to help local residents benefit from living in a tourism hotspot.
The company has already collected £3 billion in ‘tourism taxes’ around the globe. Cupples said:
Where there is clear support for such a measure to be introduced in the community, Airbnb can share its experience in working with authorities to streamline the process here in the UK too.
The short-term lettings sector has been criticised for contributing to a sharp drop in the number of rental properties available for local people as landlords switch from longer tenancies. There has been a huge 70% drop in private rented properties over the last two years in Devon, for example.
The government announced earlier this year that from April 2023 second homeowners:
- Will have to pay council tax
- Won’t be able to access small business rates relief if they are unable to prove their properties are genuine holiday lets
Airbnb is also calling on the government to deliver on its commitment to consult on a national register for the sector sooner.
The rules regarding section S21 Agreements are changing in Wales. But wherever you live in the country, it’s essential to familiarise yourself with the eviction rules to ensure you are operating within the law.
