Nine in 10 Airbnb homes in Brussels rented out illegally
More than 90 per cent of homes offered on Airbnb in Brussels are being rented out illegally, according to research published by Bruzz on Wednesday.
Brussels minister president Boris Dilliès, who is also responsible for tourism, acknowledged the issue and said rules governing short-term rentals would be tightened.
Anyone wishing to rent out a studio, house or apartment to tourists for up to three months must obtain several certificates. Hosts are required to register with both the Brussels Economy and Employment service and the regional tax authorities.
In practice, however, the urban planning certificate has proved difficult to secure. This is required to convert a residential property into tourist accommodation but is often refused in order to protect the long-term rental market. Authorities argue that widespread short-term letting reduces the availability of housing for permanent residents in the capital.
As a result, many landlords bypass the system altogether. According to Bruzz, the vast majority of properties listed on Airbnb lack both the required certificate and official registration, rendering them illegal. By comparing regional registration data with Airbnb listings, the outlet estimates that at least 90 per cent of entire homes fall into this category, and this is likely an underestimation.
At the same time, the regulatory framework itself has come under scrutiny. The European Court of Justice recently ruled that Brussels’ rules were insufficiently clear, objective and transparent. Dilliès conceded that the system is currently “complex and cumbersome” and pledged swift reforms.
“The rules for renting out entire homes will become stricter, because this competes with the housing supply and the hotel sector. More flexible rules will apply to the renting out of a room by a private individual,” he said.
© PHOTO RICCARDO MILANI / HANS LUCAS VIA AFP
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