How to Report Illegal Activities in Your Short-Term Rental

Short-term rentals (STRs) have become increasingly popular worldwide, offering travellers convenient accommodation options while providing homeowners and investors with an extra income stream.

However, with the rise of STRs, issues related to illegal activities within rental properties have also increased.

If you suspect illegal activities occurring in your short-term rental, it is essential to know how to report them properly to maintain safety, compliance, and peace of mind.

Understanding Illegal Activities in Short-Term Rentals

Illegal activities in short-term rentals can range from minor rule violations to serious criminal offences. Some common examples include:

Unauthorized parties and gatherings
Drug use and distribution
Prostitution and human trafficking
Property damage and vandalism
Fraudulent transactions
Theft and burglary
Noise violations and public disturbances
Unregistered or non-compliant rental operations

Knowing what constitutes an illegal activity is the first step toward addressing it effectively.

Steps to Take Before Reporting Illegal Activities

1. Observe and Gather Evidence

Before reporting illegal activities, ensure you have substantial evidence. This will help authorities take action swiftly. Here are some ways to document the issue:

Take note of unusual behaviour (e.g., excessive foot traffic, noise, or guests staying beyond their booking period).
Capture photos or videos (where legally permissible) of suspicious activities.
Save communication records, such as messages between guests and hosts.
Collect testimonies from neighbours or other witnesses.

2. Check Local Regulations and Lease Agreements

Short-term rental regulations vary by location. Check your local laws regarding STR compliance, zoning restrictions, and permitted guest behavior. Also, review your lease agreement or homeowner association (HOA) rules to determine any violations.

3. Communicate with the Guests

If the issue is minor, such as noise disturbances or excessive guests, consider addressing it directly with the occupants. Politely inform them about the house rules and local ordinances.

If guests fail to comply or if the issue is severe (e.g., drug-related activities or violence), escalate the matter immediately.

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Who to Report Illegal Activities To

Once you have gathered evidence and assessed the severity of the situation, it’s time to report the issue to the appropriate authorities.

– Local Law Enforcement

For serious illegal activities such as drug use, prostitution, or violent crimes, contact your local police department. Provide them with all relevant details and evidence.

Emergencies: Call 911 (or your local emergency number).
Non-emergency situations: Call the local police station’s non-emergency line.

– Short-Term Rental Platforms (Airbnb, Vrbo, etc.)

Most short-term rental platforms have policies against illegal activities and offer reporting channels. You can report violations through:

Airbnb’s Neighbourhood Support feature
Vrbo’s Trust & Safety Team
Booking.com’s Customer Service

Provide them with booking details, evidence, and a detailed account of the incident.

– Landlord, Property Manager, or Homeowners Association (HOA)

If you are a tenant subletting the property or live in a shared building, inform your landlord or HOA. They may take necessary action, such as terminating the rental agreement or enforcing community rules.

– Local Government or Housing Authority

In many cities, short-term rental properties must be registered and follow specific laws. If the rental is operating illegally or violating housing codes, report it to your local:

Code enforcement office
Zoning board
Short-term rental regulatory body

– Financial Institutions and Credit Card Companies

If you suspect fraudulent transactions, such as stolen credit cards used for booking, notify the relevant financial institution.

– Health and Safety Authorities

For concerns related to building safety violations, fire hazards, or unsanitary conditions, contact your local health department or fire marshal.

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How to File a Report Effectively

When reporting illegal activities, ensure your complaint is detailed and factual. Here are key points to include:

Your name and contact information (if required, though some reports can be anonymous)
Date, time, and location of the incident
A clear description of the illegal activity
Evidence such as photos, videos, or witness statements
Any previous attempts to resolve the issue

Providing precise and well-documented reports increases the chances of prompt action.

Legal Considerations and Privacy Concerns

When dealing with illegal activities, keep the following in mind:

Do not trespass or invade privacy – Avoid entering the rental unit without proper authorization.
Follow legal procedures – Ensure all evidence collection adheres to privacy laws in your region.
Avoid confrontation – If dealing with dangerous individuals, let law enforcement handle the situation.
Consult a legal professional – If unsure about your rights, seek advice from an attorney.

Preventing Illegal Activities in Your Short-Term Rental

Prevention is always better than intervention. Here are some strategies to reduce the risk of illegal activities in your STR:

1. Implement Strict Screening Measures

Require guests to provide government-issued IDs.
Check guest reviews and ratings.
Avoid renting to last-minute bookings without a valid reason.

2. Set Clear House Rules

Specify the number of guests allowed.
Prohibit parties, smoking, and illicit activities.
Include noise restrictions and quiet hours.

3. Use Security Measures

Install security cameras (in legal and non-intrusive areas).
Use noise monitoring devices.
Provide smart locks with unique codes for each guest.

4. Maintain Open Communication with Neighbors

Encourage neighbours to report any suspicious activities and reassure them that your STR is well-managed.

5. Register Your Short-Term Rental

Ensure your rental complies with local regulations, including obtaining necessary permits and paying required taxes.

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Final Thoughts

Illegal activities in short-term rentals pose risks to property owners, guests, and communities.

By staying vigilant, gathering evidence, and reporting violations appropriately, you can help maintain a safe and lawful rental environment.

Whether you are a host, tenant, or concerned neighbour, understanding your rights and responsibilities is crucial. By taking proactive steps, you contribute to a better short-term rental experience for everyone involved.

If you have encountered illegal activities in a short-term rental, do not hesitate to report them using the steps outlined above. Your actions can help prevent further misconduct and protect your community.