The fight is on The Mayor of London v Air BnB. Sadiq Khan has written to the Government setting out his huge concerns over the ‘problem’ or Air BnB within the capital. Here’s what’s going on:
You will all know that I love Air BnB (remember this blog?), I have a property of mine advertised on it and I use it to travel the world and have incredible experiences.
However, the Mayor of London, Sadiq Kahn thinks very differently.
The Mayor of London v Air BnB
So, here are the problems that Mr Khan has with Air BnB:
- Short-term holiday rentals are reducing long-term rentals in the capital. The assumption is that this then pushes up rental prices. One, because of lack of supply. Two, Landlords trying to recreate the income they would otherwise get through short-term lettings,
- Air BnB properties creates more noise pollution and dumping than other properties
Sadiq believes that there should be a discussion with the local boroughs about whether legislation needs to be brought in to reduce the problems.
I do want to note that the Mayor does see that Air BnB helps boost tourism in London by making it easier and cheaper to visit the capital.
Air BnB’s Response
Air BnB deny that they have had any impact on the rising prices in the capital. However, they have offered to work with policy makers to try and stop problems that are associated with any of it’s advertised holiday rentals.
What’s the Solution?
I have to be honest and say that from my experience Air BnB will only work in certain places and with a certain quality of accommodation. You need hotel quality to succeed and in a really convenient location. Also you need to be an accommodating and caring person who is happy to look after their guests needs, it’s not for everybody. It’s also a big risk as you don’t get bookings every night. Yes, for the most part, you can advertise any sort of accommodation on there, but whether you get repeat bookings is another matter.
London from Primrose Hill
Fairly quickly Landlords will discover whether Air BnB is sustainable for them. If Air BnB doesn’t suit a certain property than it will quickly find it self back on the rental market and I don’t think that this would mean at an inflated price. To get tenants, realistically you have to be at market price or slightly below.
However, I do also think that Landlords who have their properties on Air BnB must be responsible. And have consideration for neighbouring properties. They must put in place a system of checking the tenants they are allowing to stay (Air BnB does have a verification system and you can see past reviews!) and set clear guidelines of how to use the premises. On any sign that that is going wrong then the Landlord should take immediate action.
Air BnB isn’t the issue, rogue Landlord’s are – that’s what’s got to stop. London Borough’s already have the power to enforce action against Landlord’s who don’t stick to current legislation on short-term lets. So they should use that power to solve the situation!
Over To You
How do you feel about The Mayor of London v Air BnB and Air BnB in general? Do you disagree with my thoughts? Or do you have anything else to add? I would love to hear! If this has been useful for you don’t forget to share this with your friends and family. And if you loved it then please hit like!
NC
