The provincial Housing Minister says people can expect to see changes in the new year, when it comes to regulating rental properties posted on sites like Airbnb.
Selina Robinson says her staff is looking into regulating short-term rentals.
“It’s not unique to Vancouver. We’re certainly seeing it in other communities, like Tofino and other tourist destinations. And that’s something our government is committed to looking at. We’re developing a comprehensive housing strategy and you’ll start to see an implementation of that strategy in February.”
Mayor Gregor Robertson says short-term rentals have taken away the availability of many long-term rental units.
“We have almost no vacancy for rental in Vancouver. This is part of a broader effort to get more long-term rental happening and to make sure that a whole new industry is regulated properly.”
City of Vancouver staff expects its short-term rental program to be in place by April.
The city expected about 1000 suites to become available when new rules were put in place during the summer.
Vancouver City Council is hosting a public hearing about short-term rentals on Tuesday.