Make sure your short-term rental unit is legal

These days, many people rent out their homes through companies like Airbnb and VRBO. While this can be a good way to make some extra money, it’s essential to make sure you don’t violate any laws or regulations.

If you’re a renter, you’ll need to check with your landlord before renting out your home on a short-term basis. Your lease may prohibit you from subletting. If you violate the terms of your lease, your landlord will have grounds to evict you. If your landlord agrees to let you provide short-term rentals, be sure to get this agreement in writing.

If you’re a homeowner who belongs to a homeowners’ association (HOA), it may be against the HOA’s rules to use your home for short-term rentals.

You also need to carefully research zone and land-use laws in your area before renting out your home. In many cities and towns, short-term rental hosting is restricted or prohibited. Violating these laws could result in exorbitant fines. You may also need to pay certain fees and taxes to your municipal government to ensure that your short-term rental unit is legal.