Fitness Influencer Accused of Unauthorized Airbnb Subletting in London

In a case highlighting the complexities of the modern rental market, a London landlord has accused her tenant, a fitness influencer, of unauthorized subletting on popular short-term rental platforms. This incident sheds light on the challenges faced by property owners in the rapidly evolving landscape of urban accommodation.

Leanne Newton, the landlord, alleges that her tenant, Ifende Uzoka, a bodybuilding champion and fitness influencer, has been secretly listing the one-bedroom Stratford flat on Airbnb and Booking.com. The property, rented to Uzoka in October 2023 for £1,900 per month, was reportedly advertised for as much as £190 per night on these platforms.

The situation underscores the significant growth of the UK short-term rental market, which has expanded by over 300% in the past decade. London alone boasts over 100,000 Airbnb listings as of 2024, with an average nightly rate of around £150.

Newton claims that Uzoka altered the flat's interior without permission, converting the dining room into a second bedroom and mounting large TVs on walls not designed for such installations. This unauthorized modification allowed the tenant to list the property as a two-bedroom accommodation, potentially accommodating up to eight guests.

The landlord's discovery came as a shock, especially considering the thorough background checks conducted before leasing the property. This incident highlights the challenges landlords face in the current rental market, where the average rent for a one-bedroom flat in London has reached approximately £1,800 per month in 2024.

Newton has reported the issue to Newham Council, Airbnb, Booking.com, and the Metropolitan Police. However, she has found limited recourse through these channels, leaving her with only the standard civil eviction process as an option.

The case also brings attention to the responsibilities of short-term rental platforms. Airbnb, founded in 2008, and Booking.com, established in 1996, both require hosts to verify their right to list properties. An Airbnb spokesperson stated that the property in question is not currently active on their platform, while Booking.com is investigating the matter.

This incident occurs against the backdrop of a booming fitness influencer industry, where top Instagram personalities can earn up to £10,000 per sponsored post. It also highlights the allure of destinations like Dubai for social media influencers, known for its luxury lifestyle and picturesque settings.

As the investigation continues, this case serves as a reminder of the need for clear regulations and enforcement in the rapidly evolving short-term rental market, which has seen significant changes since the introduction of the UK's Tenant Fees Act in 2019.