With more South Africans looking to earn extra income, many flat owners are exploring the idea of short-term letting through platforms like Airbnb. But before you start planning to welcome your first guests, it’s important to understand how your body corporate may have the final say.
A unit in a sectional title scheme might seem like the perfect opportunity to host travellers, especially in busy tourist spots or student areas. However, many owners are surprised to find out that body corporates can limit or even completely prohibit short-term rentals.
Sectional Title owners need to be aware of the rules before listing their properties. Each complex operates under its own set of conduct rules which are enforced by the trustees. These rules can include restrictions on short-term letting to preserve the security and atmosphere of the complex.
What you need to know about short-term letting in sectional title schemes
While it’s legal to let out your property on a short-term basis in South Africa, your body corporate has the power to restrict or regulate it. This is often done to maintain peace in the complex and manage risks such as increased foot traffic, noise or potential damage to common areas.
If your complex does not already have specific rules in place, the trustees can propose changes and hold a vote at a special general meeting. If enough owners agree, the new rules can be adopted and enforced.
What this means for you: Even if you own the unit outright, you may not be able to run an Airbnb without permission. If you do go ahead without approval, the body corporate could take legal action or impose fines.
Common reasons body corporates restrict Airbnb letting
Security concerns
Frequent guest turnover can make it difficult for security personnel and neighbours to keep track of who belongs in the complex. This can increase the risk of unauthorised access.
Noise and disruption
Short-term guests may not always follow the rules or respect quiet hours, especially in holiday or party seasons. This can lead to complaints from long-term residents.
Increased wear and tear
A high volume of visitors can put pressure on lifts, parking, security gates and other shared facilities, leading to higher maintenance costs.
What you can do if you want to run an Airbnb
Check your conduct rules: Before listing your property, read the body corporate’s rules to see what is allowed.
Speak to the trustees: If short-term letting is currently restricted, you can raise the issue at the next annual or special general meeting.
Suggest reasonable conditions: In some cases, trustees may allow short-term rentals under specific conditions, such as minimum stay lengths, guest vetting or limiting the number of bookings per year.
Ensure your insurance covers Airbnb use: Standard homeowner’s insurance may not apply to short-term letting, so make sure you’re properly covered.
While Airbnb can be a great source of additional income, owners in sectional title schemes must understand and respect the body corporate’s authority. Taking time to understand the rules and working with the trustees can help avoid costly disputes and ensure your short-term letting venture is both profitable and compliant.