Landlords exposed flouting law on Airbnb

A recent investigation by BBC highlights how landlords in London are violating short-term rental regulations by creating duplicate Airbnb listings for the same property. The local law permits rentals for up to 90 nights per year without planning permission to protect the housing supply. Many landlords exploit this rule by switching listings once they reach the limit, creating a loophole that undermines the policy's purpose. A representative from Westminster City Council called the situation a "mockery" of the law, emphasizing the negative impact on local housing. The investigation revealed that approximately 1,300 listings reused identical images from other properties, suggesting widespread rule evasion.

Local authorities are actively investigating about 2,700 properties for potential violations of the 90-day limit. Airbnb contends it has tools to enforce the limit but acknowledges that duplicate listings complicate enforcement. The Greater London Authority warns that illegal short-term lets exacerbate the housing crisis at a time when affordable options are desperately needed.