Airbnb clampdown – could it happen in the UK?

The Irish government is planning to regulate short-let platforms like Airbnb to address housing shortages. In urban areas with populations over 10,000, homeowners may be restricted from short-letting properties for more than 90 days annually. Owners who exceed 21 days of short-letting per year must register with an enforcement body. Legislation, aimed at preventing permanent short-letting of homes, is expected to be introduced this summer and take effect in 2026. Around 32,000 short-let properties are currently advertised, with an estimated 10,000 potentially eligible for long-term housing use.