According to industry experts, certain properties are now deemed “unsuitable” in light of the recent — and, as they describe, “welcome” — changes introduced by the government’s economic team to the short-term rental sector. The same sources clarified to ered that the majority of properties currently listed on platforms such as Airbnb and Booking in Greece already comply with the new requirements.
The newly introduced, stricter regulations for short-term rentals aim to enhance transparency, protect tenants, and address the negative effects of the sector’s rapid expansion on local communities and the housing market. These changes are based on Law 5170/2025 and substantially revise the regulatory framework that had been in place in previous years.
New Compliance Requirements
Under the current legal framework, properties offered for short-term rental — defined as a rental period of up to 59 days — must now meet specific technical and legal standards. These include:
- Legal designation of the property as a residential dwelling
- Adequate natural lighting and ventilation
- A minimum ceiling height of 2.5 meters
- The presence of essential safety features, including:
- Smoke detectors
- Fire extinguishers
- Residual current circuit breakers (RCCBs)
- A first aid kit
- Valid liability insurance
- A valid pest and rodent control certificate
Compliance inspections have been intensified and are conducted by the relevant authorities, such as the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE) and the Ministry of Tourism. Non-compliant properties face significant fines, starting at €5,000 and rising up to €20,000. In cases of repeat offenses, fines may equal the total revenue earned from the illegal rentals.
Targeted Measures for High-Density Areas
Particular attention has been given to easing the pressure in areas most affected by the uncontrolled rise of short-term rentals, such as central Athens. As of January 1, 2025, a temporary ban on the registration of new properties in the national short-term rental registry has been implemented for the first three municipal districts of the City of Athens. The measure is intended to relieve pressure on the housing market and support permanent residents. An extension of the ban is under consideration, depending on its effectiveness.
It is important to note that the method of listing a property (e.g., via Airbnb, Booking, or any other platform) does not affect its classification as a short-term rental. What matters are the duration of the rental, the nature of use, and strict adherence to the prescribed standards.
Professionals and property owners operating in the sector must now exercise greater caution, as the regulatory framework has become both clearly defined and strictly enforced, with severe penalties for non-compliance.
