The supervision of the short-term rental market is entering a new phase, as the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE), in cooperation with the Ministry of Tourism, is activating a more structured inspection system that combines digital cross-checks, administrative audits, and on-site inspections. The aim is to identify cases of tax evasion while also ensuring that properties offered through platforms such as Airbnb comply with the mandatory operating standards.
The first phase of the plan concerns approximately 1,500 properties across the country, which have been selected from AADE’s registries. This is the pilot implementation of a new supervision mechanism which, according to the authorities’ plans, will gradually be expanded to a much larger number of properties.
Managers of the selected properties are already receiving electronic notifications from AADE, while at the same time the Ministry of Tourism is sending compliance letters informing them of the new obligations arising from the current regulatory framework. This process serves as a preparatory stage before inspections begin, giving property owners the opportunity to gather all the required documentation in advance.
The new system differs significantly from previous practices, as inspections are no longer based exclusively on random sampling. Instead, a permanent market monitoring mechanism is being established, in which the exchange of information between the competent authorities serves as a key tool for detecting violations.
How the inspections will be conducted
The inspections are the responsibility of the Regional Tourism Services (PYT), which initially examine the file of each property. If the documentation is complete and there are no indications of violations, the process may be completed without a visit to the property.
However, if deficiencies or inconsistencies are identified, an on-site inspection follows under a special inspection order. In many cases, joint inspection teams involving AADE officials will be formed, allowing both tax records and compliance with operational standards to be examined simultaneously.
Property owners are notified at least ten days before the inspection and are required to provide all the necessary documents proving that the property operates in accordance with the applicable legislation.
The new requirements for properties
The requirements now being introduced are particularly extensive and concern both safety and the overall suitability of the properties.
Among other things, property managers must have:
- public liability insurance covering damages or accidents,
- an electrical installation compliance declaration issued by a licensed electrician,
- fire extinguishers,
- smoke detectors,
- a residual current device (RCD) or anti-electric shock protection switch,
- appropriate emergency exit signage,
- a rodent control and pest control certificate,
- a fully equipped first aid kit, and
- an information guide containing useful emergency telephone numbers.
At the same time, every property must qualify as a premises for primary use, have adequate natural lighting and ventilation, and be equipped with a functional air conditioning system in order to meet the minimum accommodation standards.
The fines
The new framework provides for strict administrative penalties for those who fail to comply. Refusing inspectors access to the property, failing to submit the required documentation, or a finding that the property does not meet the prescribed standards will result in a fine of €5,000.
If the same violation is repeated within one year, the fine increases to €10,000, while any subsequent repeat offence may result in a penalty of up to €20,000.
New measures also under consideration
The first inspections are only the beginning of a broader plan for the short-term rental market. The government’s economic team is already considering additional measures that could further change the way the sector operates.
Among the proposals currently under consideration are restrictions on listing new properties in areas where there is an excessive concentration of short-term rental accommodation, the mandatory real-time transmission of booking and revenue data to AADE, and stricter licensing requirements through additional energy efficiency and safety criteria.
At the same time, authorities are examining the possibility of linking the right to operate a short-term rental with the urban planning designation of each property, in an effort to address the excessive concentration of accommodation in specific areas.
These measures form part of the government’s broader effort to balance tourism development with the needs of the housing market. The rapid expansion of short-term rentals in recent years has reduced the availability of homes for long-term rental, particularly in areas with high tourist demand, increasing pressure on rental prices and making it more difficult for workers and permanent residents to find housing.
