Running a short-term rental in Canmore can be an exciting and rewarding experience, offering both financial benefits and the opportunity to meet travellers from all over the world. However, Canmore has strict regulations in place, and failing to follow them can result in hefty fines, revoked licenses or even the forced closure of your rental.
Whether you’re new to the short-term rental market or an experienced host, it’s essential to understand the common mistakes that could put your business at risk. To help you, we have taken a look at some of the most frequent pitfalls hosts make, helping you keep your business profitable and compliant!
1. Overlooking licensing requirements
One of the most common mistakes Canmore short-term rental owners make is not understanding the specific licensing requirements. Canmore mandates that all short-term rental properties have a valid business licence, which requires submitting an application, paying the associated fees, and adhering to specific guidelines.
Before listing your property, consult the Town of Canmore’s official website or contact the municipal office to understand the licensing process and make sure all paperwork is completed accurately and submitted promptly.
2. Ignoring zoning bylaws
Canmore’s zoning regulations dictate where short-term rentals are permissible. Some residential zones prohibit these types of businesses to preserve neighborhood character and prevent disturbances. Property owners often make the mistake of assuming their property qualifies without verifying its zoning designation.
Make sure you review the Town of Canmore‘s zoning maps and bylaws to confirm your property’s eligibility for short-term rentals. If uncertain, consult with local authorities or a planning professional to ensure compliance.
3. Neglecting safety and health standards
Safety is paramount in the hospitality industry, and some property owners fail to equip their rentals with essential safety features such as smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms and fire extinguishers. You also want to ensure that you are keeping the cleanliness and maintenance to the highest standards to maximize guest experiences.
Be sure to conduct a thorough safety inspection of your property, install all necessary safety devices, and establish a regular maintenance schedule. Hiring an Airbnb manager and professional cleaning services to maintain high hygiene standards.
4. Disregarding Canmore occupancy limits
Canmore short-term rentals are subject to specific occupancy limits based on the property’s size and amenities. Exceeding these limits can lead to overcrowding, increased wear and tear, and potential fines, so be sure you clearly communicate and enforce the maximum occupancy to potential guests.
5. Failing to address parking regulations
Parking is a common concern in residential areas. Some Canmore short-term rental operators often neglect to provide adequate parking information, leading guests to park improperly and causing neighbourhood disputes.
6. Inadequate communication with guests
Poor communication can lead to negative reviews and strained relationships with neighbours. One of the most common mistakes is not providing clear guidelines on property use. Failure to do so can lead to behaviour that may disturb the community.
Be sure to develop a comprehensive welcome guide that clearly outlines house rules, local regulations, and community expectations and maintain good communication with guests during their stay.
Need help with your Canmore short-term rental?
Giving your guests the best experience, maintaining your Canmore short-term rental and maximizing your occupancy rates can be tough. And that’s before you factor in everything else you have to manage in your day-to-day life!
Here at Canmore Co-Host, we know the challenges you face. That is why our team is here to support you every step of the way. From arranging regular cleaning and maintenance to helping you optimize pricing and listings, we’ll help you maximize your income and elevate your Airbnb business!
Want to learn more? Get in touch today.
