Lack of housing in Berlin: Airbnb is exacerbating the crisis!

Lack of housing in Berlin: Airbnb is exacerbating the crisis!

Rents in Berlin have been rising continuously in recent years, which puts creative and freelance people in particular in a difficult position. Many Berliners often spend years looking for affordable housing and are forced to either accept higher rents or even move out of the city to Brandenburg. These developments are particularly reinforced by the booming holiday rental industry, which represents a flourishing business through platforms such as Airbnb. According to Berliner Zeitung, there are thousands of accommodation options available in Berlin, further fueling concerns about the housing shortage.

Critics, including some politicians, warn that short-term rentals could further aggravate the situation. To counteract this problem, a ban on misappropriation came into force in 2014, which was aimed at protecting regular living space. In 2024, this law was further tightened: rentals of more than 49% to vacationers must now be approved. Districts in Berlin have also set up audit commissions to prosecute violations of these regulations. Despite these measures, the law has so far had little effect.

The urban challenges

The discussion about short-term rental of living space has intensified in many German cities, especially in metropolitan areas and tourist-attractive areas. There are many reasons for this: owners use this opportunity as an additional source of income, while at the same time reducing the supply of housing for long-term rentals. Some federal states and municipalities are already enforcing bans on the misuse of living space to ensure that apartments are primarily available for long-term rentals, as Immowriter notes.

The legal basis for these regulations can be found in the state laws and also applies to garages, whereby their use as storage rooms is restricted. In cities like Munich, Stuttgart and Cologne there are specific rules to combat the housing shortage. Violations of the ban on misuse can be punished with fines of up to 500,000 euros in cities such as Berlin, Hamburg and Bavaria, while in other federal states the penalties are usually between 50,000 and 100,000 euros.

The social dimension of the debate

The debate about short-term rentals and the associated legal aspects encompasses not only economic but also social dimensions. There are efforts to improve the current situation and to relieve the housing situation for the general public. A survey of Berlin citizens shows that many are concerned about the influence of holiday apartments on the housing market. According to Immowriter the aim of the legal regulations is to protect and preserve the housing supply.

In summary, Berlin is facing a double challenge: rents continue to rise and at the same time living space is being put under pressure by short-term rentals. The goal should be to find a balanced solution that meets the needs of both tenants and property owners.