Brits heading to Spain should make four checks now after Airbnb crackdown

Holidaymakers heading to Spain should "act immediately" if they're concerned they might be impacted by a major

This week, authorities in announced a major crackdown on Airbnb, demanding the removal of over 65,000 listings from the platform for flouting regulations. The Consumer Rights Ministry highlighted that a significant number of the 65,935 Airbnb properties ordered to be delisted lacked proper licensing information or failed to clarify if the listing was managed by an individual or a company, with some using incorrect license numbers.

The country is facing a severe housing affordability crisis, prompting authorities to take a stand against short-term rental firms like Airbnb.

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com

READ MORE:

While many Brits may sympathise with those in Spain feeling the impact of the cost-of-living crisis and high rents generally, they may still worry about whether or not their holidays will go ahead as planned this summer.

Laura Evans-Fisk, head of digital and engagement at travel money firm, spoke to the about the likely impact of the ban and what holidaymakers should do.

“This announcement is likely to impact the number of accommodation options in tourist hotspots like Barcelona, Madrid, Mallorca and the Canary Islands. It will likely also mean higher prices will be introduced for remaining short-term rentals, whilst demand is high," Laura predicted.

“It’s also very likely to impact hotel bookings, potentially raising prices during peak seasons, and it could be much more difficult to get a last-minute room. Travellers will need to book hotel rooms much further in advance, especially during peak summer months."

Laura's advice for anyone travelling to Spain in the near future is to act swiftly and check four things.

“If you're planning a trip to Spain, I'd recommend checking if your accommodation has proper licensing and booking well in advance if you can," she said.

“If you’re worried your Airbnb booking might be affected, contact your host immediately to confirm if they have been impacted and get their perspective on the situation. It’s also worth checking with Airbnb directly about their refund policy for regulatory cancellations. Typically, they will offer full refunds when bookings are cancelled due to regulatory changes.

“Start looking for alternative accommodation as soon as possible, especially if travelling during peak season. Hotels or hostels are likely to be your best option. Many coastal areas still have traditional tourist apartments that operate with proper licenses too. If you’re struggling to get a refund and you’ve already paid the full amount, make sure you document all communications and contact your credit card company to discuss getting your money back.

“Make sure you also check your travel insurance to see if it covers accommodation cancellations due to regulatory changes. It’s definitely worth bearing this in mind for future trips too.”

Public discontent over escalating housing and rental prices, exacerbated by the surge in holiday lets offered on platforms such as Airbnb, has led to widespread protests across Spain, including major cities like Madrid and Barcelona.

"Enough already with protecting those who make a business out of the right to housing," declared Consumer Minister Pablo Bustinduy during a press briefing on Monday.

In response to the government's order, Airbnb has vowed to challenge the decision, arguing through a spokesperson that the ministry lacks jurisdiction over short-term rentals and accusing it of employing "an indiscriminate methodology" that wrongly targets Airbnb listings not requiring a license.

Barcelona took a bold step last year, unveiling a strategy to phase out all 10,000 apartments registered for short-term rentals by 2028, aiming to preserve residential housing for locals. The ministry revealed that Airbnb had been informed about the noncompliant listings months ago, but the company had challenged the decision in court.