A home seeker at a property viewing in Turku in October 2024. LEHTIKUVA
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The Finnish Property Federation (Kiinteistöliitto) has called for clearer legal guidelines regarding short-term rental housing. The current regulatory framework lacks a precise definition of what constitutes permissible use of residential properties, making it unclear when short-term rentals might violate housing rules. This ambiguity complicates the efforts of housing companies, property owners, tenants, and municipal building authorities to address the issue effectively.
Several legislative initiatives are currently underway to address short-term rental housing. These include updates to the Housing Companies Act, the Residential Leases Act, and the recent Building Act. The Finnish Property Federation hopes these reforms will resolve long-standing legal ambiguities that have posed challenges for housing companies.
Tapio Haltia, a legal advisor at the Finnish Property Federation, emphasised the importance of safeguarding peace and privacy in housing communities, even when short-term rentals are allowed. He noted the need for effective measures to address recurring disturbances, even if caused by short-term tenants who have already vacated the property.
The federation advocates for a clear distinction between permissible and prohibited uses of residential properties to be established within the Building Act. It also suggests that municipalities should have the flexibility to adjust these rules through local building codes. The impact of short-term rentals varies significantly by location, with some areas experiencing greater disruption to permanent residents. On such occasions, municipal authorities need appropriate tools to address the issue.
The federation also proposed that housing companies should have the legal authority to respond to recurring disturbances caused by short-term rentals. In extreme cases, housing companies could be allowed to take control of the problematic property for up to three years.
Short-term rentals should not be banned
While the federation supports stricter regulation, it opposes an outright ban on short-term rentals. Temporary accommodations are often necessary during large events when traditional lodging options are insufficient. Additionally, short-term rentals can be valuable during significant building renovations when residents need alternative housing.
“Short-term rentals should not be entirely prohibited or excessively restricted by law,” Haltia said. “This would also contradict the Finnish government’s stated goal of ensuring the feasibility of short-term rental activities.”
The Finnish Property Federation stressed that balanced regulations are crucial to address concerns while maintaining the availability of short-term rental options for those who need them.
HT
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Source: www.helsinkitimes.fi
