In an ongoing effort to enhance guest safety and regulatory compliance, Airbnb has recently removed dozens of holiday lets across the UK. This significant action comes after an investigation revealed that several properties posed serious health and safety risks, with dozens failing to meet basic housing standards.

As short-term rentals continue to boom, especially in popular tourist destinations, authorities and platforms like Airbnb are under increasing pressure to ensure that properties meet legally required safety standards. For hosts and guests alike, understanding this development could be crucial.

The move follows an investigation by ITV News, which uncovered unsafe conditions in some properties in the South West of England. Airbnb responded by delisting “dozens” of these homes, citing violations such as severe dampness, mould, exposed wiring, and even rodent infestations.

According to Airbnb, they work closely with local councils and remove any listings that are found to breach local rules or present risks to guests. A spokesperson from the company stated: “We take safety and compliance seriously. Properties that do not meet these standards will not remain on our platform.”

The host of problems identified include:

• Severe mould and dampness impacting air quality
• Rodents and pest issues
• Structural issues such as leaks and broken fittings
• Dangerous electrical layouts
• Lack of smoke alarms or working fire escapes

In one disturbing instance, an Airbnb guest described waking up to find rats in the kitchen. In others, families vacationing with children found properties riddled with potentially harmful damp or missing basic fire safety equipment.

Hosts must comply with both national and local regulations for short-term rentals. In particular, they must ensure:

• Electrical and gas safety checks are carried out annually
• Fire safety regulations, such as working alarms and clear exits, are implemented
• The property is free from mould, infestations, or structural issues
• Accurate information is provided in listings to avoid misleading guests

Airbnb provides tools and guidance to help hosts stay compliant, but ultimately, the responsibility lies with the property owner. Whether you manage a single holiday let or several across different cities, it’s essential to uphold these standards.

If you’re not sure whether your rental is compliant, our Airbnb management services can help ensure your property meets all local requirements.

This investigation is part of a broader national effort to ensure short-term lets are safe for public use. In areas like Cornwall and Devon, where tourism is booming, councils are proactively inspecting properties based on complaints and tips from the public.

These checks are often carried out under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS), which identifies serious risks to occupants’ health and well-being. Once a property is deemed unfit, local authorities can serve notices forcing improvements and report the listing to Airbnb for removal.

Hosts operating in high-demand tourist locations like Bath or London should be especially diligent about compliance due to the greater scrutiny these regions face.

For guests, this safety crackdown should bring reassurance. Booking through platforms like Airbnb continues to offer convenience and value, but it’s wise to:

• Read reviews from previous guests carefully
• Report any suspicious or unsafe conditions to Airbnb immediately
• Confirm safety features like working smoke detectors and secure entrances before booking

If you’d like more tips on what to check before booking, visit our guide on booking an Airbnb for your holiday.

The recent removals illustrate a growing need for professionalism in the short-term rental market. Whether you’re renting out a flat temporarily or operating a full-time holiday let business, there’s now an expectation for high-quality, safe, and well-maintained accommodations.

This trend can be a fantastic opportunity for legitimate and conscientious hosts to stand out. Those investing in high-quality property upkeep—such as regular maintenance and legal compliance—will likely benefit from better guest reviews and sustained bookings.

Check out our top 10 maintenance tips for Airbnb hosts to help you stay ahead of the curve.

With increased scrutiny from councils, guests, and platforms alike, the rules of the short-term rental game are evolving. Hosts who view their properties as serious hospitality operations rather than side hustles can thrive in this changing environment.

For professional management and guidance on running a compliant, profitable Airbnb, consider exploring Vrbo’s UK vacation rental guide and Airbnb’s official hosting standards.

Airbnb’s crackdown serves as a wake-up call for holiday let hosts across the UK. Properties that fail to meet safety and hygiene standards will be taken offline, resulting in reputational damage and missed revenue. But with the right approach, short-term rentals can continue to be a thriving, rewarding venture—for both hosts and guests.

If you’re uncertain about the legal or safety standards in your city or need help navigating Airbnb’s requirements, Moa & Kin specialises in Airbnb property management across Bath, London, and beyond.