It will either be seen as a new business opportunity by agents – or an even bigger one by tenants who may view it as a charter to sub-let.

Website Airbnb could also be a major beneficiary of a change to rules going back to the 1970s and which currently prevent London residents from renting out their homes on a short-term basis.

The rules – enforced more by some London boroughs than others – were highlighted in the Olympic Games.

Technically, anyone in London wanting to let their home for less than three months has to apply for planning permission.

This requirement is now set to be dropped in the Deregulation Bill, with ministers seeing it as a move to encourage tourism.

Communities Secretary Eric Pickles, said: “The internet is changing the way we work and live, and the law needs to catch up.

“We have already reformed the rules on renting out your unused parking spaces, now we want to do the same regarding renting out your home for a short period.

“It’s time to change the outdated, impractical and restrictive laws from the 1970s, open up London’s homes to visitors and allow Londoners to make some extra cash.”

Airbnb is already active in London, listing bedrooms but also complete flats – for example, one in Shoreditch for £179 a night.