Royal Decree 1312/2024, of 23 December, on the single register of short-term accommodation leases enters into force

The Royal Decree 1312/2024, issued on December 23, comes into force on January 2, 2025, establishing a unified register for short-term rental contracts. However, its actual application will begin on July 1, 2025, allowing time for technical adjustments.

Key Points of the Regulation

1. Scope:

   • Applies to paid short-term rentals facilitated by online platforms or directly offered by hosts through these platforms.
   • Hotels, campsites, and similar accommodations are excluded.

2. Definition of Short-Term Rentals:

   • Accommodations not intended for permanent residence (e.g., for tourism, work, study, or medical treatment).
   • Includes entire or partial properties, as well as boats or ships, provided they do not offer navigation services.

3. Obligations of Landlords:

   • Registration in the property or movable assets registry before listing on online platforms.
   • Providing and updating relevant information and sharing the registration number with platforms.
   • Responding to authorities' inquiries regarding rental units.

4. Obligations of Online Platforms:

   • Ensure registration numbers are displayed in listings.
   • Conduct regular checks on landlords' declarations.
   • Report violations to the relevant authority.
   • Remove or block listings within 48 hours upon administrative order.

Conclusion

The decree introduces new bureaucratic requirements for short-term rentals, increasing data collection and regulation for both landlords and platforms. It has been criticized for being overly complex and data-intensive.