Short-Term Airbnb Sublets: North Carolina Renters’ Legal Guide

Roommates, Subletting & Shared Housing North Carolina published: June 21, 2025 Flag of North Carolina

Airbnb and other short-term rental platforms are popular among renters looking to earn extra income or temporarily sublet their apartments in North Carolina. However, state law, local ordinances, and your lease agreement all affect if and how you can offer your rental for short-term stays. It’s important for renters to understand what’s allowed—and what risks exist—before listing a unit for short-term rental.

Understanding Short-Term Sublets Under North Carolina Law

North Carolina law does not contain a specific statewide statute that permits or prohibits Airbnb-style subletting. Instead, legal rules come from a combination of:

If your lease prohibits subletting or short-term rentals, renting your unit on Airbnb (or similar platforms) could violate your lease and lead to eviction proceedings. If your lease is silent or permits subletting, you may still be subject to local laws or HOA rules. Always check your lease and ask your landlord in writing before proceeding.

Key Lease Clauses Affecting Airbnb or Short-Term Rentals

Most North Carolina leases contain clauses that either ban or limit the renter’s ability to sublet or list on rental platforms. Key terms include:

  • “No Subletting” clauses: Explicitly ban all subletting, including short-term stays
  • “Written Consent Required” clauses: You need landlord’s written permission before offering your unit for short-term rental
  • Additional occupant or guest policies

Violating these terms could result in a notice to quit or lease termination. North Carolina landlords are not required to allow sublets unless agreed otherwise.

Short-Term Rental Restrictions by City or Local Ordinance

Some cities—like Raleigh, Charlotte, and Asheville—have their own rules or permit requirements for short-term Airbnb-style rentals. For example, Raleigh requires a permit for short-term rentals and limits which properties can be listed. Always check your local government’s official website for up-to-date rules. You can find more information on municipal codes at the official North Carolina government website.

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Official Forms: Subletting and Lease Changes

  • Notice of Request for Sublease (no state-mandated form):
    • Use when asking your landlord for written permission to sublet your rental (including for short-term/Airbnb scenarios).
    • Practical example: If your lease requires landlord consent, write a letter or email (titled "Request to Sublet") explaining your intent, guest dates, and nature of the sublet. Send it by certified mail for proof.
    • No standard statewide form; check for templates with local housing authorities. See official lease guidance at the North Carolina Housing Finance Agency.
  • Summary Ejectment (Eviction) Complaint – Form AOC-CVM-201:

How the North Carolina Courts Handle Disputes

Rental housing disputes—including those over short-term sublets—are handled by the North Carolina Judicial Branch. Small Claims Court is usually the venue for eviction or enforcement actions. There is no separate "residential tenancy board" or tribunal in North Carolina; all disputes go through the court system.

If you are served with any court papers, do not ignore them. You have the right to respond in court, and missing your hearing could lead to eviction by default.

Legal Legislation: The North Carolina Residential Rental Agreements Act

The main law governing most residential landlord-tenant matters—including some aspects of subletting and property use—is the North Carolina Residential Rental Agreements Act (G.S. Chapter 42 Article 5). This law clarifies landlord and renter obligations, but it does not guarantee a right to sublet or address Airbnb directly.[1]

Action Steps: What to Do Before Subletting or Listing on Airbnb

  • Review your written lease for subletting or Airbnb restrictions
  • Check with your local city or county for permit/ordinance requirements
  • Request landlord permission in writing (and keep a copy)
  • Do not list or rent out your unit short-term before completing these steps
Before attempting any short-term sublet, always keep written records of landlord communications and understand your risk of eviction if you violate the lease.

FAQs About Airbnb and Short-Term Sublets in North Carolina

  1. Can I rent out my apartment on Airbnb if my lease doesn’t mention subletting?
    If your lease is silent, you should still ask your landlord for written permission. Many leases prohibit subletting by default, and listing your apartment without consent might be seen as a violation.
  2. What happens if I get caught subletting without my landlord’s approval?
    Your landlord could issue a notice to terminate your lease or start eviction proceedings through North Carolina’s court system. You would receive court paperwork and have a right to a hearing.
  3. Are there any cities in North Carolina that ban Airbnb or short-term rentals?
    Short-term rental rules vary by city. For instance, Raleigh requires permits and limits rentals in some residential districts. Always check your city government’s website for current regulations.
  4. Do I need to file any forms with the state to sublet my unit?
    No official state form is required to sublet, but you should submit a written request to your landlord if permission is required by your lease.
  5. Who handles rental disputes related to subletting in North Carolina?
    The North Carolina Judicial Branch (Small Claims Court) oversees residential eviction and rental disputes.

Key Takeaways for North Carolina Renters

  • Always check your lease terms for subletting or Airbnb restrictions.
  • Request written landlord consent and follow local city rules before listing a short-term rental.
  • Rental disputes are handled through the state court system, not a housing board.

Understanding your rights and obligations helps avoid costly disputes and protects your tenancy.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

  1. North Carolina Residential Rental Agreements Act (G.S. 42-38 to 42-46)
  2. Eviction (Summary Ejectment) Complaint – North Carolina Judicial Branch
  3. NC Local Government Directory

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Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights USA

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for renters everywhere.

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