Medellín Seals 90 Tourist Rentals: How to Check Your Booking

Medellín has temporarily sealed 90 short-term rentals in 2026 for failing requirements. Here is what it means for your booking and what to check.

If you are planning to rent an apartment in Medellín through Airbnb or a similar platform, there is a piece of local news worth knowing about. The city government has been cracking down on short-term rentals that do not meet the rules for tourist lodging.

What happened

According to local press reports, the Medellín Mayor's Office has temporarily sealed 90 properties used as short-stay rentals for visitors so far in 2026. The sealing follows 268 inspections carried out to check compliance with tourist lodging regulations.

The city's Secretariat of Tourism and Entertainment says its aim is to build an offer of tourist lodging that is formal, reliable and safe.

Why it matters to you as a traveler

The main risk is simple: you could book a place on Airbnb or a similar platform that turns out to lack the legal requirements, and that property could end up sealed. A sealed rental can mean a disrupted stay and the hassle of finding another place at short notice.

This does not mean every apartment rental is a problem. It means that the paperwork behind a listing matters more than it may seem.

What to do before you book

• Ask the host about their registration. The recommendation is to confirm that the host has their registration in order. Ask for it in writing before you pay.
• Keep your conversations in the platform. Messages and confirmations give you a record if something goes wrong.
• Read the cancellation and refund policy. Check what happens if the place cannot host you.
• Consider a plan B. If you are traveling during a busy period, know which hotels or registered options are nearby.

If you prefer fewer unknowns, a traditional hotel or a lodging that clearly shows its registration is an easier path.

A note on details

The figures above come from news reports on the Mayor's Office statements and may be updated as inspections continue. Rules and enforcement can change, so confirm the current requirements and your host's status before you travel.