Short-lets management firm says it backs Labour call for sector regulation

One of the many firms that has sprung up to manage Airbnb-style short let accommodation says it backs the Labour Party’s call for greater regulation for the sector.

In 2015, the government limited short-term letting of whole residential premises in London to a maximum of 90 days in a calendar year. However, Labour says London borough councils have never had access to any information that confirms a property is being used for short-term lettings.

Now Fran Milsom, co-founder of Air Agents, says he backs the call.   

“The sharing economy is on the rise, and is here to stay. It doesn’t come without its difficulties, but there are so many benefits both for the individual and the local community. There are many lessons we can learn around licencing and registration, and we can look to other cities to understand best practice” he says.

“We were founding members of the UK Short Term Accommodation Association, a membership body that is dedicated to creating sustainable pathways and influencing legislation. We are working with local authorities and the Mayor of London’s office to help regulate the market” Milsom continues. 

He also says more needs to be done to prevent anti-social behaviour or misuse of property.

Air Agents describes itself as a London-based Airbnb management company, managing properties on behalf of corporate clients and individual owners.