Airbnb, the popular home-sharing platform, has recently updated its community in New York City about its ongoing legal battle with the city. According to a blog post on Airbnb’s official newsroom, both Airbnb and local hosts have filed separate lawsuits against the City of New York.
The lawsuits come in response to Local Law 18, passed by the city last year, and the subsequent rules implemented by the Office of Special Enforcement (OSE). Airbnb and its hosts argue that these regulations effectively ban short-term rentals in New York City, which is in stark contrast to other cities worldwide that have enacted balanced short-term rental rules.
Airbnb’s email to Airbnb Hosts in New York City, written by Theo Yedinsky, Airbnb’s Global Policy Director, explains that the new rules are punitive and burdensome. For instance, hosts are not allowed to have internal locks on bedroom doors per OSE guidance. The city also requires hosts to certify compliance with several confusing city codes and does not allow private home hosts to rent their whole space while they are away.
Despite Airbnb’s attempts to engage with city leaders and offer alternative solutions, the conversations have not led to substantive changes. As a result, Airbnb felt compelled to take legal action on behalf of its hosts and its ability to continue welcoming guests to New York City.
The email also provides details about the lawsuits. Airbnb’s lawsuit argues that the law and new rules will drastically decrease the number of listings in New York City and represent a de facto ban on short-term rentals. The hosts’ complaint argues that the law requires hosts to share sensitive information about their household with OSE in violation of their right to privacy under the Fourth Amendment.
Despite the ongoing legal battle, Airbnb says it remains committed to working with governments worldwide to put in place fair rules that protect home sharing and consider each community’s unique goals.
Featured Image Credit: Airbnb
