Mooroolbark residents say Airbnb not welcome in their street
Neighbours of a quiet Mooroolbark court say a wild Airbnb house has turned their peaceful neighbourhood into a living nightmare.
Outer East
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Neighbours of a quiet Mooroolbark court say their peaceful lives are being ruined after a house was turned into Airbnb “nightmare’’.
Coombah Court homeowner Dennis Hirschfield said the house had become a magnet for police busts, late-night noise and property damage.
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“At times they have had up to 11 different cars coming and going at all hours of the day and night, slamming doors, talking loudly, smashing glass and disturbing the peace of all residents,” Mr Hirschfield said.
“Guests’ vehicles are often parked bumper to bumper on the street and sometimes block residents’ access to their own properties as well as in front of the fire hydrant.”
He said the parking issue had prevented an ambulance from accessing the court, and an elderly resident had to walk up the street with her shopping after the bus couldn’t get through.
But Yarra Ranges Council social and economic development director James Collins said the council had inspected the property and investigated the issue.
“No building or health permit is required, because the entire home is being rented, as opposed to individual rooms,” Mr Collins said.
“Council is regularly patrolling the area to monitor the carparking situation and to ensure people aren’t parking illegally.
“Sites such as Airbnb advertise accommodation types like bed and breakfast and short term rentals.”
Airbnb spokesman Julian Crowley said running an Airbnb was a big responsibility and those who failed to meet the company’s standards would be subject to suspension or removal.
“Our Neighbour Tool also allows neighbours to raise any concerns they might have about listing with us directly,” Mr Crowley said.
“There have been more than 400 million guest arrivals in Airbnb listings to date and negative incidents are extremely rare.
“The overwhelming majority of Airbnb hosts and guests are good neighbours and respectful travellers.”
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