This shocking figure has been highlighted in a study by the Town and Country Homes Association.
The association, who represents around 60% of registered B&Bs in Ireland, has called for the compulsory licensing of the sector to bring it in line with hotels and self-catering accommodation.
A licensing system would increase consumer confidence, reward effort and eliminate sub-standard operators, according to the association.
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Chair of the Town and Country Homes Association, Kate Burns, said: "Up to 5,000 unapproved B&Bs are currently allowed to operate without any health and safety standards, undermining over 2,600 registered B&Bs who pay to be inspected,
"In all other sectors of accommodation in Ireland you must register and be graded for quality and standards - so why not in B&Bs?"
Ms Burns said consultation with the industry, trade, and marketing organisations had found that 74% supported mandatory licensing and registration.
An estimated €300 million is generated from the B&B sector annually.
However, Ms Burns said the service was facing a number of serious challenges.
"An explosion of low cost hotel accommodation, changing visitor trends which favour short, urban breaks and the continued presence of unapproved, unregulated establishments have all contributed to declining numbers of approved homes and decreasing occupancy and popularity," she added.
(PR/JM)
