It’s already a very un-typical part of the United Kingdom but now Jersey has set itself apart in a different way – it’s launched a landlord licensing scheme that is FREE to join.

Whereas most British local authorities levy high fees on landlords, new plans put forward on Jersey will see landlords required to apply for a license for each of their rental properties, which will need to be renewed every five years. 

There will be no initial charge for existing landlords to join the scheme, which is designed to uphold minimum safety standards.

ITV News on the island reports that inspections of each rental property would then be carried out periodically, to ensure the home complied with the legal minimum standards for rental dwellings.

The minimum standards cover damp, excess cold, drainage and electrical hazards, as well as structural safety.

Last September the Jersey government – called the States – rejected a proposal for a licensing scheme that would have charged landlords. 

Deputy Rob Ward, proposing the new scheme, says: “It will ensure that the Government of Jersey, for the first time ever, has the necessary knowledge about what property is being rented out, and its suitability, occupancy and location. 

It is intended that a light touch will be adopted. The Environmental Health Team will continue to work with landlords and managing agents to achieve compliance within an agreed timetable.”

However, landlords on the island have warned that the bureaucracy involved may lead to charges at a later date; instead, it has suggested a registration scheme and a beefed-up complaints system.