Islanders are being asked to share their views on proposed changes to Jersey’s rental laws as part of a review launched by a panel of politicians.
Housing Minister Sam Mézec has put forward changes to Jersey’s Residential Tenancy Law in a bid to give renters more security, while ensuring landlords can still manage their properties fairly.
If approved by the States Assembly this summer, the new rules would stop landlords from raising rent more than once a year, limit rent increases at the rate of inflation (RPI) and cap them at 5%, and allow tenants to challenge unfair rent hikes through a new Rent Tribunal.
The reforms would also limit the use of short fixed-term contracts, extend notice periods for tenants, and prevent landlords from evicting tenants without a valid reason.
The Environment, Housing, and Infrastructure Scrutiny Panel is now examining the plans to ensure they achieve their goals without harming the wider housing market.
The panel, chaired by Deputy Hilary Jeune, will hold public hearings, speak to landlords, estate agents, and tenants, and compare the proposals to similar laws elsewhere.
Deputy Hilary Jeune said: “While the aims of the Amendments appear on the surface to be a positive change for tenants, it is important that we fully consider their impact and whether the changes achieve their aim of providing more security for tenants without having unintended consequences on the housing market.
“We are keen to speak to all representative organisations with an interest but would also very much like to hear from tenants and individuals about how they think the changes will affect them.”
The panel will present a scrutiny report of its findings, including key recommendations for Government, in mid-2025.
Islanders can have their say by emailing scrutiny@gov.je or by attending public drop-in sessions.