Mandatory Safety Equipment for Renting in Crete (2026)

Since October 1, 2025, Law 5170/2025 imposes strict safety standards on all short-term rentals in Greece. Here is the complete list of mandatory equipment and requirements to be compliant in Crete.

Fire extinguishers

Minimum 1 fire extinguisher of 6 kg (dry powder or water mist) per 100 sqm. An 80 sqm apartment needs at least 1 extinguisher. A 150 sqm villa requires 2. The extinguisher must be accessible, visible and its maintenance must be up to date.

Smoke detectors

Mandatory in ALL bedrooms and in the kitchen. Non-negotiable. Detectors must be functional and tested regularly. For a 2-bedroom, plan for at least 3 detectors (2 bedrooms + kitchen).

Emergency lighting

Emergency lights must be installed at the exits, with clear signage. In case of a power outage, occupants must be able to identify exits immediately.

First aid kit

The kit must contain at minimum:

• Antiseptic
• Sterile gauze and bandages
• Burn gel
• Latex gloves
• Ammonia salts
• Labeling in Greek AND English

Posted emergency contacts

A sheet with emergency numbers must be visibly posted in the property:

• Police
• Fire department
• Ambulance (EKAB)
• Poison control center
• Coast guard
• Nearest hospital
• Local taxi

Electrical certificate (YDE)

An electrical certificate issued by a licensed electrician is mandatory. It certifies that the electrical installation is compliant and that a residual current device (RCD) is present. This certificate must be current at the time of rental.

Liability insurance

Liability insurance has been mandatory since October 2025. It must be taken out with an insurer licensed in Greece. Cost: from 650 EUR/year.

Other requirements

• Valid pest control/disinfection certificate
• Air conditioning mandatory (except for properties in mountains above 600 meters altitude)
• Minimum ceiling height: 2.5 meters
• Natural lighting in bedrooms: minimum 10% of floor area in windows
• Ventilation: minimum 5% of floor area

Where to buy equipment in Crete

To equip your property, several options:

• Praktiker: hardware store, available in major Cretan cities
• Leroy Merlin Heraklion: wide selection of safety equipment
• Local pharmacies: for compliant first aid kits

Total budget for compliance

For a standard property (2-3 bedrooms), the total budget for all safety equipment is between 200 and 400 EUR. This is a modest investment compared to the risks of non-compliance (fines, rental prohibition).