Residential properties which are rented out as daily
accommodations for tourists are under intense scrutiny these days
in Thailand, in particular with regards to the requirement to
obtain a hotel license. The main reason is clearly the high
increase in rentals through online portals such as Airbnb.
This is Part I of a blog contribution that discusses the
requirements for obtaining such a hotel license under Thai laws and
regulations.
Accommodation providers shall apply for a permit from the
competent registrar and need to comply with the rules and
regulations in order to operate hotel business if their residential
place falls within the definition of a hotel in the Hotel Act. The
rules and regulations have the purpose of controlling hotel
standards, promotion of hotel business operation, promotion and
preservation of environmental quality, sturdiness, hygiene and
safety of hotels.
