Valencia’s regional government has introduced a new decree-law requiring tourist apartment owners to make significant changes within five years. The “Decree-Montes,” named after the president of the Generalitat, Carlos Mazón, mandates the removal of key boxes and the provision of 24-hour customer service for tourist rentals.
Key requirements of the Decree-Montes
The decree, published in the Diari Oficial de la Generalitat (DOGV), brings several new obligations for tourist apartment owners. Among the main requirements are:
- Removal of key boxes: Property owners must eliminate key boxes in public spaces.
- 24-hour customer service: A 24-hour customer service hotline must be made available to tenants.
- Connectivity: Properties must provide mobile phone and internet access unless situated in areas without coverage.
- Amenities: Apartments must be equipped with an automatic washing machine, unless a common laundry facility is available within the building.
Existing requirements for tourist apartments
The new regulations build on existing ones, maintaining requirements such as:
- Posting a list of emergency numbers and evacuation plans in a visible location.
- Ensuring the availability of hot water and electrical outlets in all rooms.
- Informing tenants of the nearest healthcare facilities.
In terms of accessibility, properties must have an elevator if the building is over four floors high. Additionally, all tourist apartments must have cooling and heating systems in the living areas.
Subsidiary responsibility and legal implications
A significant change in the new decree is making property owners subsidiarily responsible for any illegal activities by tenants. This move aims to provide legal security for both property owners and tenants. Property owners will have the right to evict tenants who breach rental agreements without refund, while tenants can expect minimum standards of habitability.
Transition period
The decree outlines a phased approach to compliance:
- Properties authorised before 7 July 2018: These will retain their registration without changes.
- Properties registered between 7 July 2018, and the decree’s enactment: These must comply with new quality standards within five years and renew their urban compatibility certification by 2030.
- Properties authorised after the decree’s enactment: These must renew their declarations and certifications every five years.
Criticism
While the decree aims to improve the standard of tourist accommodations, it has faced criticism from property owners. They argue that the new regulations impose additional burdens and restrict the flexibility of renting out properties for short periods. The decree also includes a controversial provision that could allow communities to amend their statutes to exclude properties from being used as tourist rentals.
The new regulations signify a comprehensive effort to regulate the tourist rental market in Valencia, ensuring better service and safety for tenants while placing more responsibility on property owners. The five-year compliance window gives property owners time to adapt to these new requirements and enhance the quality of tourist accommodations in the region.