Popular Spanish islands, traditionally favored by British tourists seeking winter sun, have recently passed new legislation that could pose challenges for finding accommodations during peak seasons.
Following a contentious debate, the Canary Islands’ Parliament has formally approved the long-discussed bill. The new regulations, criticized by holiday rental companies and local authorities, will necessitate strict enforcement measures.
ASCAV, representing holiday rental owners in the Canaries, expressed dismay, labeling it a “black day.” They anticipate negative impacts on smaller rental operations, reducing options for holidaymakers.
The new laws primarily target holiday rentals, supported by the hotel industry, their primary competition. These regulations will categorize holiday rentals as businesses, even affecting individual homeowners letting out their properties. Stricter guidelines will dictate where tourist rentals can function, with councils mandated to designate permissible areas within five years.
Moreover, minimum standards such as property size, energy rating, and a ten-year minimum age for rental properties will be enforced. Housing allocations for residents will be prioritized, with a significant percentage reserved for locals in tourist-heavy zones.
Councils face increased responsibilities to ensure compliance with health and safety standards, necessitating an eight-month period to devise enforcement strategies. Renewals for tourist-rental licenses will now span five to ten years, presenting challenges for current license holders in strained housing markets.
These changes come after years of protests in the Canary Islands and mainland Spain, urging tourists to boycott destinations like Tenerife. Despite the unrest, summer tourism in Tenerife experienced a notable surge, underscoring the ongoing challenges in balancing tourism and local housing needs.