Airbnb Operators in Greece Suggest Enhancements

Photo source: Airbnb

Short-term rental (STR) operators in Greece sent a letter to Tourism Minister Olga Kefalogianni, to the ministers of economy and development, and to the Greek Tourism Confederation (SETE) this week with a set of proposals to be taken into consideration when updating a relevant legal framework.

In its letter, the Short-Term Accommodation Managers Association (STAMA) is proposing six requirements that should be applied to all Airbnb-style activity to ensure the quality of services offered and safety, and at the same time to support the country’s tourism product and apply conditions found in other forms of hospitality.

Among others, recommendations include providing civil liability insurance, the installation of a fire extinguisher, ensuring emergency exits are clearly marked, the inclusion of a first aid kit to be renewed every six months and checked before each new check-in, the mandatory sanitary disinfection of rental spaces.

Photo source: Airbnb

According to STAMA, the aim of the proposal is to upgrade the quality of services and ensure the future of the STR segment, which is “making an ever-increasing contribution to both GDP and to Greek tourism figures”.

Amendments to the bill for short term rental operations is currently being examined by the involved ministries and will soon open for public deliberation.

Other STR requirements proposed include the installation of smoke detectors and of energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, the provision of medical assistance and emergency telephone numbers in print or digital form in all rooms; installing non-slip surfaces in bathtubs or showers; the inclusion of a refrigerator with freezer and basic kitchen utensils.