Greek Property Owners Warn New Tourism Law Could Harm Short-term Rentals

Photo source: This is Athens-Convention & Visitors Bureau

The Panhellenic Federation of Property Owners (POMIDA) has expressed concerns over the Greek Tourism Ministry’s proposed draft law on short-term rentals.

According to POMIDA, the regulations appear to be influenced by “lobbying” from the hotel industry.

The draft law, currently under public consultation, introduces several measures, including mandatory insurance for all short-term rental properties, safety protocols, and an increase in the climate resilience fee.

While the federation does not oppose insurance or safety measures, it warns that the combination of increased taxes and regulations could lead to higher rental prices. This, in turn, may reduce tax revenues and drive short-term rental properties out of the market, according to the federation.

Photo source: This is Athens-Convention & Visitors Bureau

POMIDA also highlighted that such measures may negatively affect the tourism sector by reducing revenue for both property owners and the country.

The federation drew comparisons to similar measures in Barcelona, which failed to resolve housing shortages, as short-term rentals were not the primary cause.

Greek property owners urge the tourism ministry to reconsider the proposals, suggesting they could lead to an economic “dead end” for the short-term rental market.