URA orders ‘more detailed' survey on Airbnb-style rentals

It reported mixed views from its online consultation that ended 31 May 2018.

The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) said it has commissioned a research firm to conduct a more detailed survey of Singaporeans’ views on short-term accommodation (STA).

According to URA, the results of this survey will complement the feedback obtained through the earlier public consultation exercise and meetings with stakeholders. “We will continue to study the matter carefully, before deciding on the next steps forward,” it said.

There were mixed views about the extent of regulations to be imposed, URA noted. “Some felt that the proposed regulations were overly stringent. But others thought that tighter regulations were needed, especially to address the concerns of those who might not be willing to have their residential apartments let out for STA,” it added.

URA’s online public consultation on the proposed regulatory framework for short-term accommodation (STA) closed on 31 May 2018.

Also read: 1,808 Airbnb-style leases in private homes reported in 2015-2017

As Minister Lawrence Wong shared in Parliament on 11 July, many respondents supported the need for regulations on STA, given that STA can cause negative externalities to other residents.

Key concerns raised include safety, security and privacy, as well as abuse of common property. Many also supported regulating STA platform operators, for example through a licensing framework.