Plans to change private rental sector tenancy law have gone out to consultation on Jersey.

The minister for Housing and Communities, David Warr, claims the consultation sets the agenda for improvements to legislation with key proposals including: 

– Introducing open-ended tenancies, offering more security of tenure and protection against so-called ‘revenge evictions’;

– Increasing minimum notice periods for tenancies;

– Limiting the amount and frequency of rent increases during tenancies;

– Establishing a new Housing Tribunal that will consider a wide range of residential tenancy issues;

– Formalising requirements for social housing provision. 

Warr says: “In my Ministerial Plan, I made a commitment to bring forward proposals that will improve residential tenancy issues in Jersey. Planning is already underway with law drafting instructions in place – and which I will consider updating after I have heard people’s views. I want to see comprehensive improvements to the level of protection afforded to both tenants and landlords, and I’m pleased to be able to now share details on how I propose to take this forward. 

“I’m keen to ensure fellow [parliament] Members, tenants, landlords and all Islanders are able to help shape this work through engagement and consultation. It is vital that we work together to secure the right outcome for Islanders, on an issue of such great importance to Jersey.

“I encourage people to have their say via the online consultation and look forward to hearing from States Members in the upcoming In-Committee debate. I am determined that this will not delay the delivery of this vitally important new legislation.” 

The consultation runs for around eight weeks. Islanders can have their say on the consultations web page between now and June 9.