Short-Term Rentals: New Regulatory Framework
The new legislation introduces a comprehensive framework for properties rented on a short-term basis, establishing clear health and safety standards. It also enables inspections by the Ministry of Tourism in collaboration with the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (IAPR), ensuring transparency and compliance with current regulations.
1. Requirements for Short-Term Rental Properties
Properties intended for short-term rental must meet the following criteria:
- Usage and Features: Properties must be designated as primary residential spaces (Article 2, Paragraph 95 of Law 4067/2012), with adequate natural lighting, ventilation, and air conditioning.
- Insurance: Mandatory liability insurance to cover damages or accidents.
- Safety Measures: Must include an electrician’s safety declaration, fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, residual-current devices, or anti-shock breakers, as well as emergency exit signs.
- Hygiene and First Aid: Certificates for pest and rodent control, a first-aid kit, and an emergency contact guide must be available.
2. Compliance Inspections
Inspections are carried out by Ministry of Tourism officials and mixed teams from the IAPR. Managers are notified at least 10 days prior to the inspection and must provide all required documentation. In urgent cases, inspectors may request police assistance.
3. Inspection Process
Authorized officials conducting inspections must present:
- An official service ID and a written order specifying:
- The order’s number and date.
- Details of the inspector.
- Information about the property’s manager or owner.
4. Obligations of Managers
Managers are required to cooperate with inspectors and present the necessary certificates and documents.
5. Administrative Fines
A fine of €5,000 is imposed for violations such as:
- Denial of property access to inspectors.
- Non-compliance with regulations.
- Failure to adhere to legal requirements.
Fines are payable as public revenue.
6. Compliance Deadline
Managers have 15 days to address non-compliance issues.
7. Repeated Violations
If a violation recurs within a year, the fine is doubled. Subsequent violations incur fines quadruple the original amount.
Accommodation Classification Based on Environmental Criteria
1. Categories and Goals
For the first time, hotels and rental rooms will be classified based on environmental criteria. The system, developed by the Hellenic Chamber of Hotels (HCH) and the Technical Chamber of Greece (TCG), aims to promote sustainable development and enhance the competitiveness of Greek accommodations.
2. Issuance of Certificates
The HCH issues environmental classification certificates after assessments by accredited engineers.
3. Inspections and Compliance
The Ministry of Tourism may conduct inspections to verify classification accuracy. In cases of irregularities, operations are suspended until a new certificate is issued.