@Bren – yes. Google this. HOAs and entire municipalities have restricted and/or banned short term rentals all over the US

Are you sure about this? I am aware of the Neighbors tab, but it seemed to be merely window dressing. Has any airbnb actually ever been delisted for violating town ordinances?

You are very wrong about this. Communities have had zoning laws for centuries, back to Roman times. I cannot open a hog slaughtering operation in my front yard, or a gas station, or a used car lot, or a …..hotel, which is exactly what airbnb is — an unlicensed, unregulated HOTEL. I pray that your home is surrounded by airbnbs. Then we’ll see how libertarian you feel about the issue of Public Nuisance that is airbnb.

HOAsHaveNoPower, thank you for commenting! I have to respectfully disagree with you. We have a master deed and rules and regulations that must be followed as a community. The owner knew of these rules prior to purchasing his home. As I stated in another comment, he is within his rights to rent his home as a yearly rental (long term). However, he is using his home as a hotel and that is prohibited in our community.

HOA’s have very little say in any matter regarding a private property, regardless of any covenants or deed restrictions. Just like nobody can tell you how to use your car, their house can be used any way they see fit.

If there is a noise issue complaint or harassment, these can be handled by reporting to the local city or country as that is a valid case of being a nuisance which can be stopped. As far as them renting the house out, they are free to do that as they wish. If you want to make the rules for his house, start paying his mortgage every month!

Natalia, girl I feel the pain.. sorry you have to deal with that. Post your story on airBNB hell! I’ve been getting great feedback advice so maybe you can as well!

Anne! Thank you and double thank you if you are the same Anne that replied previously! I was unaware airBNB would remove illegal listings. I called once and they dismissed me real fast and stated they had lawyers to fight HOA but a formal email or mailed letter from our attorney with facts and details about residents wishes may be more powerful! I like what you suggested and can add a few facts! I’ll send it to the board and have a discussion. Thanks again!

To get their attention some wording to consider is:
I am Jane Doe, president of the MyLovelyNeighborhood Home Owners Association. I am reporting this property for operating an illegal Airbnb. The HOA covenants prohibit short term rentals. The owner of this property, Mr. WhatsHisName has been notified to cease operations immediately. We will be pursuing legal action if his short term rentals continue. This is our notification to Airbnb of the illegal listing. Attached are copies of the Declation Banning Short Term Rentals and the signature page. (I think you can take pics of the pages & attach them to the message)

Our goal is for this homeower to comply with the neighborhood covenants. Thank you for your support.

Best wishes getting this problem resolved. The sad part is that it reflects badly on short terms rentals and there are many good properties with excellent, caring owners that are left with the negative feedback after this owner goes out of business (one bad apple…..).