As of October 1st, new regulations for properties offered for short-term rental have come into force. Inspection teams from the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) and the Ministry of Tourism will carry out checks, with fines for non-compliance starting at €5,000.
The Ministry of Tourism has published the new “Short-Term Rental Property Inspection Sheet,” which serves as a checklist of the requirements that must be met. Inspectors can also attach photographs in cases where violations are found.
The main rules that will be checked are as follows:
- The property must be designated as a primary-use space, as stipulated in its building permit.
- Bedrooms must have natural light and ventilation through windows of specific minimum dimensions.
- Openings must face a communal or uncovered area, or a side open to a semi-outdoor space of the building.
- Air conditioning is required in all bedrooms, except in areas located above 600 meters in altitude.
- A valid civil liability insurance policy issued by a licensed insurance company is mandatory.
- An installer’s declaration is required, certifying the presence of a residual current device (RCD) or anti-shock relay.
- A portable fire extinguisher (dry powder or water-based), weighing at least 6 kg per 100 sq.m., must be available.
- Smoke detectors must be installed on ceilings, covering bedrooms and the kitchen.
- Emergency lighting and exit signage must be in place for all exits.
- Valid pest and rodent control certificates must be provided.
- A list of emergency phone numbers must be posted in a visible spot.
Additionally, properties registered as basements, storage spaces, or garages will be automatically removed from the official registry. International booking platforms will be notified to block such listings. It is estimated that around 5% to 10% of the properties currently available on short-term rental platforms will be deemed non-compliant and deleted.
For each inspection, property managers will receive a ten-day prior notice, including information on any observations. In cases of violations, fines starting at €5,000 will be imposed, with the possibility of repeat inspections if necessary.
