EU: Airbnb breaches consumer rules: EC

The European Commision told Airbnb on Monday, July 16, to bring its terms and conditions into line with the bloc’s consumer rules or face action by national consumer agencies, reported Reuters.

Some of Airbnb’s terms and the way it presents its prices breach the bloc’s unfair commercial practices directive, the unfair contract terms directive and the regulation on jurisdiction in civil and commercial matters, an EU executive said.

San Francisco-based Airbnb and similar rental platforms, which help homeowners rent out their homes or rooms for short periods, have grown in popularity in recent years because of their competitive prices in comparison with hotels.

“But popularity cannot be an excuse for not complying with EU consumer rules. Consumers must easily understand… how much they are expected to pay for the services and have fair rules for example on cancellation of the accommodation by the owner,” EU Justice Commissioner Vera Jourova said in a statement.

The company has until the end of August to present its proposals for responding to the criticism which will then be reviewed by the European Commission and national consumer authorities. It could face fines if it does not comply with EU rules.

Full Content: Reuters

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