top cx logo
cx logo
Explorearrow down
search icon

Developer bans Airbnb-style rentals in new French homes

The property developer hopes the move will ensure year-round accommodation for residents 

Future owners will not be allowed to rent out their homes to tourists on platforms like Airbnb Pic: Daniel Krason // Shutterstock

A property developer in south-east France has forbidden future owners from renting out their homes to tourists on platforms such as Airbnb.

Benjamin Combey, general manager of Primalp, a property developer in Annecy (Haute-Savoie), hopes the move will ensure year-round accommodation for residents.

There are already some 3,000 furnished flats advertised on such websites in Haute-Savoie, reports Capital.

Read also: MAP: Latest house price rises in France - how has your area fared?

Mr Combey said his solution is a ban on short-term rentals in the co-ownership regulations of his new development in the heart of Annecy, due to be delivered in 2025.

He concedes that, legally, this ban could be changed later by the co-owners at a general meeting. However, Mr Combey believes that the majority rules that apply will serve to maintain the ban in the long term rather than overthrow it. It is then up to the co-owners and the syndic to enforce the rule. 

While some buyers have subsequently given up their purchase, he says others have been reassured that they are less likely to be disturbed by noisy rental neighbours.

Mr Combey intends to extend the rule to other housing projects managed by his company.

Read more: The French tourist cities taking a stand against Airbnb-style lets

This should involve "150 homes per year" within the department, he told France Bleu.

However, not all his properties will be affected: "We will avoid doing it in resorts because it is difficult to stop owners who pay a lot of money for their flats from renting them out.”

A number of other French cities in tourist hotspots have been taking a stand against short-term holiday rentals,

In Saint-Malo, for example, the mayor recently introduced caps on how many holiday lets are permitted within different areas of the city. 

Related articles

Airbnb host and company fined €189,000 for illegal rental in Paris

Time to sell not buy property in France advise majority of notaires

House flip for huge profit sparks second home protests in France

Resident or second-home owner in France?
Benefit from our daily digest of headlines and how-to's to help you make the most of life in France
By joining the newsletter, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy
See more popular articles
The Connexion Help Guides
featured helpguide
Healthcare in France*
Featured Help Guide
- Understand the French healthcare system, how you access it and how you are reimbursed - Useful if you are new to the French healthcare system or want a more in-depth understanding - Reader question and answer section Aimed at non-French nationals living here, the guide gives an overview of what you are (and are not) covered for. There is also information for second-home owners and regular visitors.
Get news, views and information from France