Brussels is cracking down on short-term tourist rentals, and town councillors have decided to seal buildings that are illegally used as tourist accommodations.
Local officials said the building includes six spacious flats and offices, all of which had been converted into tourist accommodations without legal approval.
According to the Local Government Services in Brussels City, contact with the building manager has continued for more than a year, and he has received a request that he has ceased his business, which he has not listened.
However, this stage of dialogue was not sufficient. Therefore, it states that the fundamental decision to seal the building is a statement from Brussels City.
This move is greeted with a mixed reaction, some support it, others oppose it.
“There are a lot of people on the street who have suitcases that come here to stay, and there are a lot of people who don’t know how to find accommodation, and they can’t find a place to live,” says Maurice DeMartau, the neighbour of the sealed building.
“Airbnb? Why? It brings people back to the city centre, which is always a bit neglected. So, when I start closing it, I think it’s a bit too much.”
Authorities say the crackdown aims to maintain access to Brussels’ homes, particularly in the city centre where property pressure is high.
Rodolphe Van Weyenbergh, spokesman for the Brussels Hotels Association: “This is clearly a step in the right direction. We are clearly hoping to apply effective regulations. This is essential.”
Strict rental rules will be enforced
Many say that Brussels landlords already feel pressure from short stays and some regulations and heat from competition.
This month, Brussels introduced new rent pricing regulations to keep outrageous rents under control as landlords in the Brussels area are subject to stricter rent pricing rules.
If the rent exceeds 20% of the local guided amount, it is considered an excess. However, there may be exceptions if some inherent qualities support the increase.
So some have praised the crackdown on accommodations for a short period and praised it as a step in the right direction.
“The situation today is unacceptable for those who respect the rules. Whether you’re a hotel, a bed and breakfast or a registered apartment hotel, this unfair competition cannot bear. It’s a step in the right direction. You need to continue in this direction.”
Critics say that in addition to housing issues, unregulated tourists create problems in other cities.
Noise pollution is a common complaint, but permanent residents arrive frequently and feel that tourist departures are a nuisance to the building.
Brussels hopes the dramatic move will send a clear message to other owners who may try to break the rules.
By doing this, city officials suggest they intend to show they are committed to ensuring they comply with town planning regulations.
