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On June 17, I had the opportunity to host our virtual Ottawa Airbnb Host Meetup, where local hosts came together to discuss practical ways to improve their listings, create better guest experiences, and simplify the day-to-day challenges of managing a short-term rental. First, I want to thank everyone who attended. It was great meeting new hosts, reconnecting with familiar faces, and having so many thoughtful discussions throughout the evening. Whether you've been hosting for

If you’re running an Airbnb in Ottawa, or even thinking about starting one, there’s a by-law you really need to understand. The City has a Short-Term Rental By-law (2021-104), and it applies to every host, whether you’re renting out a room in your home or managing multiple properties. Here’s what it actually means in plain terms: You need a permit You can’t legally run or even advertise a short-term rental in Ottawa without a host permit. Every listing needs to show the permi

A common belief in Ontario is that any stay longer than 28 to 30 days automatically becomes a tenancy under the Residential Tenancies Act. That's not how the law actually works. Under Section 5 of the Residential Tenancies Act, certain types of accommodations are exempt from the Act entirely. This includes accommodations intended for the travelling or vacationing public and temporary or short-term stays. What Section 5 of the RTA says 5 This Act does not apply with respect t

Have you had your basement denied from permit renewal? Thinking about renting your basement on Airbnb in Ottawa? Here's what the City actually looks for, what triggers a denial, and how to get your space compliant. Most people will tell you that if you have a basement unit, like a granny suite, it'll get approved as long as it's not a self-contained unit. Not exactly true. If you're trying to rent your basement in Ottawa, the key issue is how the City classifies the space. Th