B&B and guesthouse owners express anger at law designed by neophytes

Summary

1. Introduction: A reform that is shaking up the tourist accommodation sector
2. Tax and regulatory challenges for B&B and guesthouse owners in 2025
3. Professional reactions to this law deemed inadequate
4. Fundamental differences between professions and their impact on regulations
5. Outlook and paths forward for a sector in crisis

Introduction: A reform that is shaking up the tourist accommodation sector

Since the adoption of the new legislation in 2025, a wave of anger has been blowing through all B&B and guesthouse owners. These professionals, often passionate about their profession, are seeing their business considerably weakened by a reform they consider to have been designed by novices unaware of the realities on the ground. The new regulations profoundly alter the attractiveness and taxation of their accommodation, leading to a loss of satisfaction and opportunities. The changes primarily affect taxation, energy classification, and administrative procedures. However, for these small tourism entrepreneurs, this development comes as a blow, especially in rural or tourist areas, where their business often represents a genuine source of income and social connection. Mistrust is palpable, as they feel they are being treated as mere property managers, even though they claim to be hosts and ambassadors of the region. The heated debates surrounding the anti-Airbnb law illustrate this perception: a regulation that, under the pretext of harmonizing the sector, disproportionately penalizes those who take a different approach to tourist accommodation. Discover our comprehensive guide for landlords, where you’ll find practical advice, property management tips, and useful resources to optimize your experience as a landlord. Whether you own a house, an apartment, or a commercial property, we have the information you need. Tax and Regulatory Issues for B&B and Guesthouse Owners in 2025In 2025, tax and administrative regulations have tightened significantly, causing real unease. The reduction in the tax allowance from 71% to just 50% is a major source of concern for owners who invested passionately in their business. Now, a significant portion of their income is subject to heavier taxation, heralding an increase in contributions. According to a recent study, these new measures will lead to an increase in tax burdens of up to 30%. This means that owners will have to become more creative to keep their businesses afloat, particularly by raising their rates or reducing their services. The situation is all the more complex because this reform doesn’t just concern taxation. Energy regulations, for example, require the completion of a DPE (Energy Performance Certificate), with classifications ranging from A to G. G-rated properties will be prohibited from being rented as of 2025, raising fears of a drastic loss of income. Criteria Old regulations New regulations (2025)

Tax allowance

71% 50% VAT threshold for B&Bs

€25,000

Prohibited rental properties Rated G or F Rated G from 2025

Hospitality labels Optional Mandatory for certain accommodations Beyond the tax aspects, regulations also require investments to comply with health and energy requirements. Well-rated or certified accommodation is becoming a necessity. In this context, many owners are forced to review their business or are simply considering closing their doors. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GltSHlmsfss

Costs related to new standards: a brake on growth?	The investment costs associated with compliance are not insignificant. Between mandatory certification, energy renovations, and compliance with accommodation standards, these expenses can quickly reach several thousand euros. For some, this means an increase in their rates, which can reduce their competitiveness compared to platforms such as Airbnb or other online booking sites.	Rural areas, which are often less well-equipped, feel this pressure more. However, in high-demand areas such as La Rochelle or Bordeaux, some professionals believe these investments are essential to strengthen their attractiveness. Professionals’ reactions to this law, deemed inappropriate
	Owners were quick to express their anger. Among them, Monique Potel testified: “We are not property managers, but hosts, proud to share our land. The new tax system, by likening us to property managers, places us in a purely commercial context, without taking into account our social and cultural role.” She also denounces the similarity adopted with rental companies of furnished tourist accommodation, even though their profession is clearly distinct.	Claudine Drillouet, owner of a gîte, sums up the situation this way: “We have to pay to obtain certifications, to accommodate people with disabilities, or to meet environmental requirements. All of this means having to revise our prices or abandon our passion.” Frustration is mounting, as the official goal is to regulate the market, but for these stakeholders, it feels more like a disguised punishment.
Discover our complete guide on landlords: advice, rights, and responsibilities of owners, as well as tips for managing your property effectively.	Accusations of Ignorance and Unfairness	What’s even more annoying is the feeling that this legislation was developed without real consultation. Some denounce an
injustice	that places their activity in the same category as that of professional investors or temporary rental platforms like Gîtes de France. Yet the difference in profession and approach is glaring: these small, artisanal businesses emphasize authenticity, human connection, and the promotion of the region. Owners vs. Platforms	Bed and Breakfasts
Airbnb-like Platforms	Customer Relations	Personalized, Friendly Welcome

Rentals Without Direct Interaction

Objective

Promotion of Local Products

Financial Optimization Investment Amount Renovation and Certification CostsOften Low Investment, Remote Management For these stakeholders, regulations affect their image and professional dignity. The perception that they are merely property managers, with no consideration for their social role, creates profound misunderstanding and fuels anger.

Prospects and Pathways for a Sector in Crisis

In the face of this crisis, several solutions are emerging. The first is to strengthen consultation between local stakeholders, elected officials, and sector representatives. Establishing a regulatory framework more suited to small property owners could limit the damage. Then, the sector must innovate to differentiate itself from mass rental platforms. Diversifying its offerings, particularly through local labels or eco-responsible approaches, can strengthen their attractiveness and credibility. Models such as mountain hut rentals or the development of authentic offerings promote greater value for the region while respecting local capacity. Adopt a local labeling approachPromote authentic and responsible offerings

Engage in constructive dialogue with the authorities

Rely on networks such as Gîtes de France

Future challenges: regaining trust Restoring the trust of owners is a major challenge. Transparency in the development of regulations, recognition of the social and cultural role played, and financial support are key elements to restoring the spirit of these stakeholders. The sector must not only survive, but also adapt and evolve to continue promoting local heritage. It is essential that regulations evolve, taking into account local specificities and the artisanal entrepreneurial fabric, in order to preserve this tourist wealth for which many French regions are renowned. The key lies in sustained dialogue between public authorities and stakeholders on the ground, so that each accommodation regains its place in the tourism landscape of tomorrow. FAQWhy is the 2025 tax reform so negatively perceived by B&B owners?

Because it reduces their tax allowance, increases their expenses, and imposes costly energy standards, which calls into question the sustainability of their business.	Do B&Bs really need to make costly investments to continue operating?	Yes, to comply with new energy standards, obtain certifications, and improve their hospitality, which can represent a real financial challenge for small operators.
How can owners defend themselves against this regulation?	By joining forces, advocating for appropriate regulations, or by promoting their uniqueness through local certifications or cultural authenticity.	Does the regulation promote quality or standardization?
It tends primarily to standardize, but often to the detriment of authenticity and local diversity, the main strengths of these accommodations.	Source:	france3-regions.francetvinfo.fr

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