Airbnb Concierge Regulations: 10 Legal Questions Every Pro Must Ask

Remember: a single mistake can cost you dearly! Fines, loss of trust from property owners, or even business shutdown. By mastering your rights and duties as a concierge service specializing in short-term rentals, you secure your business, professionalize your client relationships, and gain legitimacy.

1# Can a Concierge Service Manage Short-Term Rentals Without a Professional License?

Yes, as long as the concierge service does not sign leases or collect rent on behalf of the property owner.

If your concierge service remains a simple service provider (check-in, check-out, cleaning, linens, listing distribution, guest communication), then you are in the clear.

To go further with services (handling reservations, collecting payments...), a professional property management license ("Carte G") is mandatory.

What exactly is the "Carte G"?

The Carte G is a professional license reserved for real estate agents, marked with the letter G. The Carte G is mandatory (under French law known as the Hoguet Law, or Law No. 70-2 of January 2, 1970) to carry out property management activities, including in the context of short-term rentals. It can be applied for on the French government's business portal and certifies the ability to manage real estate on behalf of third parties. This requirement applies to real estate agencies, concierge services, and property management platforms. The Carte G is valid for 3 years.

2# Can a Concierge Service Freely Set Rental Rates?

Not on its own. Prices must be decided with (or approved by) the property owner.

You can recommend rates using dynamic pricing tools, but you cannot impose them unilaterally.

3# Can a Concierge Service Collect Guest Payments?

Only if it holds the Carte G (see question #1). Otherwise, the property owner must receive payments (or rent) directly.

Without the Carte G, the Airbnb concierge service can bill for its own services but cannot collect the stay payment.

4# Can a Concierge Service Subcontract Tasks to Unregistered Individuals?

No. Employing unregistered workers, even for cleaning or guest reception, exposes the concierge service to prosecution for undeclared labor.

It is better to work with registered service providers or self-employed professionals. And there is no shortage of professionals! There are even dedicated matchmaking websites for the short-term rental industry such as Rent Swift or Yoojo.

5# Can a Concierge Service Perform Renovations in the Property?

Yes, for minor maintenance work.

But for interventions involving plumbing, electrical work, or major construction, the required qualifications and insurance are needed. Do not improvise as a tradesperson!

6# Can a Concierge Service Collect and Remit the Tourist Tax?

Yes, if this is stipulated in the management agreement with the property owner. You must then handle the collection, declaration, and remittance of the tourist tax (in place of the owner). Be careful -- the concierge service must comply with the rules set by each municipality!

7# Can a Concierge Service Share Guest Data with Authorities?

Yes, but in compliance with GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation) for short-term rentals. Some municipalities require stay declarations, but guests must be informed about this data collection.

8# Can a Concierge Service Take a Commission on Rental Income?

Yes, provided this is clearly established in the service agreement. The percentage taken from rental income must be transparent and accepted by the property owner.

9# Can a Concierge Service Terminate a Contract with a Property Owner?

Yes. However, the terms must be specified in the contract signed between both parties: notice period and conditions, reasons for termination, etc.

10# Can a Concierge Service Impose Rules on Guests?

Yes, within the framework of the house rules (check-in procedures, noise levels, trash disposal, etc.). These rules must be communicated to guests before or at the time of booking.

If you want to go further in structuring your Airbnb concierge business, Nowistay supports you with:

• An AI assistant that answers 90% of guest questions on your behalf;
• And a custom digital welcome guide that showcases your professionalism and makes life easier for guests.