Row over independence of re-formed Rent Control Tribunal

A row is brewing on the Channel Island of Jersey over the make-up of a Rent Control Tribunal.

Although the island’s landlords association has urged its members to resist rent rises where possible, the tribunal is being re-created for the first time in some years because of concern from politicians over the scale of rent hikes and the cost of living crisis.

But one party - Reform Jersey - says it’s concerned because the proposed membership of the tribunal consists mostly of finance experts and landlords, with no member directly representing tenants.

Reform Jersey party leader Sam Mézec says: “The proposed membership of the Rent Control Tribunal is inadequate. The Minister has failed to propose a membership which represents a balance of the perspectives in our society. He has instead chosen to stack it full of landlords, including the chairman of an organisation which opposed the creation of a Tribunal which could allow claims to be made against their members. 

“This is clear conflict of interest which will certainly leave tenants across the Island with little faith that this Tribunal will provide them with any justice. I do not say this as a criticism of the individuals, but it is inevitable that this perception will be what defines these appointments.

“Many tenants in Jersey are currently facing extortionate rent increases and have little to no protections in law. The government must introduce compulsory rent stabilisation measures into tenancy contracts and establish a fit for purpose Rent Tribunal to allow tenants to challenge exploitative practices.”

Reform Jersey wants “a member who will help reflect the diversity of our community and provide tenants with confidence that they will have a fair hearing at this Tribunal.”

The tribunal offers private renters the opportunity to appeal to an independent body if they believe their rent is excessive.

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