The Flemish government has decided to tighten the rules governing Airbnbs, Flemish Tourism Minister Hans Bonte (Flemish socialist Vooruit) has announced. Soon, only accommodation with a registration number from VisitFlanders will be allowed to advertise on online platforms. At the same time, local authorities will be given additional tools to take action in the event of the accommodation causing a local nuisance.
Airbnb is an online marketplace that connects travellers with people who want to rent out their homes, spare rooms, or unique properties. It allows individuals to book short-term or long-term lodging directly through the Airbnb website or app as an alternative to traditional hotels.
An annual inspection of online platforms by Flemish tourism agency Tourism Flanders revealed that only 6 out of 10 accommodation providers checked were in compliance with Flemish Accommodation Legislation. Operators must register their property with VisitFlanders, and the building must comply with requirements including fire safety, insurance and hygiene.
It will no longer be permitted to offer accommodation without a registration number on the platforms. The websites will also have to share details of their listings and activities with VisitFlanders.
If a property does not comply with local town planning regulations, a report from the local council will in future suffice for VisitFlanders to close the accommodation. Currently, an enforcement procedure must be followed, which sometimes can take years.