France hits the middlemen
According to Fortune.com, in early 2026, courts in France confirmed that platforms like Airbnb are legally liable for listings that violate local rules on short-term rentals. This was a turning point in the jurisprudence: previously, the main blow had fallen on landlords who rented out apartments without registration and violated the rules. Now the responsibility of the services themselves is also in question.
It should be noted that Paris is one of the largest short-term rental markets in Europe. According to the estimates of the city administration, only in the capital region about 75 thousand objects rented to tourists for short periods. These apartments put pressure on the housing market and contribute to the shortage of affordable housing for local residents, officials believe.
French courts have already ordered heavy fines for owners who fail to register their properties. They have also confirmed the authorities’ right to sanction platforms if they fail to follow local rules.
Spain steps up pressure on Airbnb
A similar story is unfolding in Spain. In March 2026, the Madrid High Court refused to overturn Airbnb’s €64 million fine, which was imposed last December for advertising short-term rental properties without licenses or with incorrect registration.
Spain’s Ministry of Housing Policy identified about 65,000 violations – advertisements for rentals that were not properly registered in accordance with new national regulations. Airbnb tried to appeal the fine, but the court rejected its request to suspend the decision.
The registration system will legitimize the market
European cities are facing criticism from locals who attribute the rise of short-term rentals to rising housing costs and the displacement of permanent renters. Paris, Barcelona and other tourist centers have introduced restrictions that severely limit renting out accommodation through platforms like Airbnb without strict registration and compliance with local regulations.
In addition, as of May 20, 2026, a single registration system for short-term rental properties will come into effect in the EU, which will allow cities and member states to share data and better monitor the market. This should make it easier to detect infringements and strengthen control over platforms.
What this means for Airbnb
If court rulings in France and Spain become precedent, short-term rental platforms will become responsible for the listings their users post.
This could change the business model of Airbnb and related services, forcing them to strengthen local compliance checks at the listing stage.
