Consumer rights in the sharing economy

13.3.2015

Question for written answer E-004195-15
to the Commission
Rule 130
Theresa Griffin (S&D)

The rise in popularity of the so-called ‘sharing economy’ (also known as ‘collaborative consumption’ or the ‘peer economy’) has meant that this market is not regulated. This situation can create unfair competition between suppliers of registered services and owners renting out property they are not using.

In addition to this issue of unfair competition, the situation can also mean gaps in protection offered to consumers.

In light of this, is the Commission considering bringing forward legislation to clarify the situation?