I AM concerned about short-term rentals being allowed without any proper regulations and licensing ("URA to seek feedback on short-term home rentals"; Wednesday).
I have encountered many irresponsible short-term tenants who made much noise at my condominium's barbecue and swimming pool area even after 10pm, smoked by the poolside and broke common property like furniture.
The security guards had to confront them and even the police had to be called in.
Unlike hotels, the condo management does not have the funds to replace damaged furniture on a regular basis.
I hope the Urban Redevelopment Authority will first consult genuine owner-occupiers before changing the rules, as this is the group that would be most affected.
Some suggestions include:
- Ensuring the owner who rents out the unit also lives in it, with the purpose of the short-term rental being to cater to tourists who are interested in home-cooked meals and understanding our culture.
- Allowing only licensed units to offer short-term stays.
- Requiring the owner of a licensed unit to pay a refundable security deposit to the condo's management.
- Tightening strata title laws regarding loud noise, smoking, littering and so on. Smoking should not be allowed in the rental units, to protect the health of neighbours, and owners and tenants who flout this rule should be made to pay a hefty fine.
- Requiring the owner to pay higher management fees per share value, as he would be contributing more to wear and tear of the facilities.
Before introducing any new rental laws, I hope the Government sticks to its aim of making home prices affordable and home ownership a priority.
Khor Eng Hao
*Letter first appeared on ST Forum Letters, (20 Dec)