Mallorca is not only the favorite destination of beach holidaymakers - the island and its tourist attractions are also in high demand among landlords. But those who rent out their apartments to tourists without a license could soon be in for a rude awakening. Illegal vacation rentals have been a problem for years, and now the authorities are tightening the thumbscrews even further. The penalties? Severe. And that is an understatement: The fines now range up to 400,000 euros. A case in Calvià recently made headlines where this maximum penalty was imposed. Another landlord in Palma had to 40,000 euros pay - expensive fun for a few weeks of sun and a quick return.
When the inspectors come
The authorities have not only sent out a few nasty letters, but have now started a real Taskforce on the road. Inspectorspretending to be harmless vacationers book themselves via Airbnb and Booking.com in suspicious apartments - and thus double-cross the illegal landlords. Equipped with credit cards and a lot of patience, they uncover violations. So far over 6,000 illegal vacation rentals have been uncovered, and the penalties imposed already add up to 1.79 million euros. One can only hope that the landlord has calculated well beforehand.
A tight spot for locals
While for some tourists the dream of a Mallorcan vacation home becomes reality, things look rather bleak for the locals. Illegal rentals drive the Rental prices and the number of affordable apartments for Mallorcans is shrinking rapidly. Especially in popular areas such as Palma, Pollençaand Calvià things are getting tight. The government is therefore cracking down - and with success. This year alone 279 Procedure opened. A sign that the authorities are no longer patient with the manipulation of the rental market.
A shock worth millions
Only recently, a case of almost 1 million euros penalty - a clear signal to all those who still believe they can outsmart the market. Also 312 Inspection reports in the current year: The hunt for illegal vacation rentals is in full swing, and those who don't play by the rules will pay - and pay heavily.
0 Comments