Tourists in Bucharest are unknowingly staying in illegal rentals on Airbnb and Booking.com located in buildings with the highest seismic risk, according to exclusive data from Re:Rise. These properties could collapse in a major earthquake, endangering over 1,000 visitors nightly.
Why Bucharest Rentals Are a Seismic Danger
Bucharest is the most seismically vulnerable capital in the EU, with a history of devastating earthquakes. The 1977 quake killed over 1,500 people and destroyed 32 buildings. Experts warn another major earthquake is inevitable, and many buildings are now structurally unsound due to age and neglect.
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Illegal Listings on Major Platforms
Analysis identified at least 207 illegal tourist rentals across Airbnb and Booking.com in Bucharest. Booking.com hosted 116 listings, Airbnb had 47, and 44 appeared on both platforms. All were in buildings classified as RS1—the highest seismic risk category. Despite Romania’s 2024 law banning rentals in such buildings, enforcement remains weak.
| Platform | Illegal Listings | Total Capacity |
|---|---|---|
| Booking.com | 116 | ~580 guests |
| Airbnb | 47 | ~235 guests |
| Both Platforms | 44 | ~220 guests |
Combined, these rentals can host over 1,000 visitors each night, with many tourists unaware of the danger. Neither platform requires hosts to disclose structural safety, leaving guests at risk.
Key Takeaways for Travelers
- Always verify building safety before booking short-term rentals in earthquake-prone areas.
- Check local regulations: Romania’s 2024 law bans rentals in RS1-classified buildings.
- Use official hotel or resort listings that comply with safety standards.
- Consider travel insurance that covers natural disasters.
How to Stay Safe While Traveling
To avoid unsafe accommodations, research building certifications and read recent reviews. If booking in Bucharest, prioritize hotels in newer or retrofitted structures. The city has at least 404 high-risk buildings where renting is illegal, but only a fraction have been formally assessed.
FAQ
What is the seismic risk for tourists in Bucharest?
Bucharest is the EU’s most seismically vulnerable capital, with many buildings at high risk of collapse during a major earthquake. Tourists renting in RS1-classified buildings face serious danger.
Are Airbnb and Booking.com responsible for unsafe listings?
Both platforms claim it is the owner’s responsibility to ensure safety. They do not require hosts to declare structural integrity, leaving guests uninformed.
What can travelers do to avoid risky rentals?
Choose reputable hotels, read building reviews, and check local seismic risk maps. Avoid listings in older buildings without safety certifications.
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