Government crackdown targets unlicensed short-term rentals as part of broader effort to rein in soaring housing costs and restore control over the rental market
May 20, 2025
Spain has taken a bold step in addressing its escalating housing crisis by ordering Airbnb to remove over 65,000 holiday rental listings that violate existing regulations. The move is part of a broader national and regional crackdown on short-term rentals, which authorities say are fueling housing shortages and rent inflation. The government accuses platforms like Airbnb of fostering a largely unregulated market, while Airbnb contends the actions are unjustified and plans to appeal.
Key takeaways
- Mass delisting ordered: Spain’s Consumer Rights Ministry has demanded Airbnb remove more than 65,000 listings that either lack license numbers or fail to disclose the identity of the owner (individual or corporation).
- Legal backing and appeal: Madrid’s high court supports the removal of around 5,800 listings. Airbnb plans to appeal, arguing the ministry lacks authority and provided no evidence-based list.
- Crackdown context: This action is part of Spain’s wider crackdown on tourism rentals, driven by concerns that short-term rentals reduce long-term housing availability and affordability.
- Housing crisis backdrop: Spain’s housing market has struggled since the 2008 real estate crash, with supply failing to meet growing demand.
- Unlicensed rentals widespread: As of late 2023, Spain had 321,000 licensed holiday rentals – 15% more than in 2020 – yet many more continue to operate illegally.
- Barcelona’s strict stance: Barcelona has led the charge with a full ban on holiday rentals by 2028. Similar restrictions are being explored or implemented in other cities.
- European trend: Other countries like Croatia and Italy are also introducing regulations to curb short-term holiday rentals to alleviate housing pressures.
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