Feb 13 (Nikkei) - U.S.-based Airbnb will start a comprehensive support service for hosts in Japan in an effort to ensure a sufficient number of local listings amid an upcoming regulatory change and growing competition.
A new company under Airbnb partner Evolable Asia will serve landlords who want to outsource holiday rentals on the Airbnb platform. By working with about 15 businesses, this new company will handle everything from regulatory filings and furnishings to cleaning and guest support on behalf of property owners.
For instance, administrative scriveners will be available to file the proper paperwork. A Tokyo Tatemono subsidiary will clean the properties and supply fresh linens. To make the rentals more attractive, Bic Camera will help deliver electronics and furniture, while SoftBank Group will provide communications services like Wi-Fi for guests. A call center will be set up to field complaints and insurance will be provided.
Japan will relax regulations on home rentals, known here as minpaku, in June, but the new legal framework requires hosts to register their properties with local authorities and provide adequate services, such as regular cleaning and a customer service hotline for guests.
Airbnb plans to remove noncompliant listings from its website by the time the new law is implemented. The company aims to grow its listings by enabling property owners to get into the home rental business easily.
