EU considers curbs on holiday lets
Thursday 3rd September, 2026
The European Commission plans clearer rules allowing cities to restrict holiday lets and second homes where housing costs are placing severe pressure on residents.
This gives you a chance to talk about how short-term rentals, supply and affordability are shaping the UK housing debate.
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Why have we flagged this?
The European Commission’s proposed restrictions on holiday lets and second homes could affect housing supply and rental markets, giving Rightmove an opportunity to share UK listing and rental trend data.
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Thinking...
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Expert comment
Call for targeted rules on commercial holiday lets
Argue that policymakers should target professional short-let operators while protecting occasional home sharing and focusing on building more homes.
Expert comment angle: Have Rightmove’s housing expert offer this view to the BBC, The Guardian and consumer property press.
Why: It gives journalists a practical UK perspective on the Commission’s proposed distinction between commercial and occasional rentals.
Newsjack
Build a guide to second-home rules for buyers
Create a plain-English guide explaining how restrictions on second homes and holiday lets could affect people buying, renting or letting property.
Newsjack angle: Publish the guide within days and offer it to consumer titles and regional newspapers covering affected housing markets.
Why: The European announcement creates immediate confusion, and Rightmove can turn complex policy into useful public advice.