Council sent letter to cease airbnb

[Sheryl--Lynn-0]

I just received a letter stating that I must cease using my house as an airbnb 'serviced apartment' and to remove my listing from airbnb within 2 weeks. I have many bookings already. The letter states that using my land as a 'serviced apartment' is not permitted. 

What should we do? 

[Scott80]

Common question, I'd start by Googling "Council sent letter to cease airbnb" and reading a few of the discussion threads and articles to see what others have done. 

The short answer is you are going to have to evaluate if the Council has the lawful authority to force you to cease AirBnB. They should provide you with a legal citation in the letter. I'd read the law or ordinance and decide if it seems like you are violating it. If you feel that you are not violating it, or if you feel that the law or ordinance is contrary to a higher statute you are going to have to decide if it is worth fighting.

A lawyer will be able to tell you the costs and likelihood of success in fighting the demand.

[Helen3]

Hello @Sheryl--Lynn-0

How does it work in your area? Are you meant to apply for a license or planning permission in order to rent out in your area?

Have you spoken to the Council about your options?

Airbnb does let hosts know that they need to check that they have necessary permissions from their local councils and/or apartment block management companies/landlords before letting.

Once you have checked permission with your local council depending on the outcome you can either apply for the permissions/license or you may need to contact Airbnb to help your guests find alternative acommodation. You will then likely be liable for cancellation charges.

You can also speak to hosts locally (I know there are local forums for Austrlian cities ) and ask their advice.

[Monica4]

This kind of situation is not good for Airbnb and of course not good for hosts. Hosts need to check their legal situation before listing so that bookings don't have to be cancelled. Approach your council before they approach you. Get proper insurance before you have a liability case. Register with your local tourist office, get the inspections and pay your tourist tax if that is a requirement in your area.

[Romy-and-Rupert0]

Hi Lynn,

Could you please share how this turned out for you?