Ever dreamed of making extra cash by listing your apartment on Airbnb while you're away? That dream could quickly turn into a nightmare if you haven't checked your strata bylaws first.

We dive deep into the complex world of short-term rentals in strata buildings, exploring why these restrictions exist and who they affect most. For tenants, the stakes are particularly high – unauthorised Airbnb listings can lead to lease termination, regardless of recent changes to eviction laws. Property managers have become increasingly vigilant, monitoring online listings and following up on neighbour complaints about unfamiliar faces coming and going.

Building restrictions on short-term rentals aren't arbitrary. They address legitimate concerns about security, excessive wear and tear on common areas like lifts (those suitcases take a toll!), and the disruption that high-turnover guests bring to residential communities. While beachfront properties in areas like Manly might seem perfect for holiday rentals, the same strata rules apply.

For property owners, the calculation is different but equally important. Yes, nightly rates through Airbnb can exceed regular rental income, but the increased wear and tear shouldn't be underestimated. Unlike long-term tenants who treat a property as home, holiday-makers often approach accommodation with a different mindset – sometimes even as a "party pad."

The regulatory landscape has changed dramatically too. What was once an anything-goes environment now operates under specific legal frameworks. Short-term rentals under three months fall outside the Residential Tenancies Act, creating different management challenges that most property managers prefer to avoid.

Want to know what's allowed in your building? Check your strata portal, request bylaws from your strata manager, or review your contract of sale if you're purchasing. Better yet, speak directly with your property manager before listing. Some buildings have adapted to accommodate short-term rentals, but assuming permission without verification remains the biggest mistake tenants and owners can make.