In an attempt to address tax evasion from short term rentals in the sharing economy sector, Greece’s Independent Public Revenues Authority, AADE, is reportedly ready to start using a “search robot” method scanning online platforms like AirBnB.

Adopting the so called Portuguese model – following a recently enacted rental law in Portugal – the tax bureau aims to locate unlawful property owners leasing their dwellings via online platforms without having them registered in AADE’s dedicated registry for short-term leases.

The final date for registration of existing property owners engaged in the online short-term basis rental business was on 30 November, while failing to register can attract a fine of up to €5,000.

Recently, the head of AADE, Giorgos Pitsillis, spoke publicly about the need for online platforms to collaborate in order to tackle the issue of regulation.

“Sooner or later, a common-ground solution will be found. Taxation cannot be a factor affecting competition”, Mr. Pitsillis said.

It is estimated that just in one online platform for short-term rentals, there are more than 5,000 properties listed within the greater Athens area alone, with owners charging on average €52 per day of lease.