Major overhaul of Jersey rental law to take effect in April

Jersey’s government has signed an order introducing what officials describe as the most significant reform to the island’s residential tenancy legislation in over ten years.

The Residential Tenancy (Jersey) Amendment Law 2025 will update the existing 2011 framework, with the aim of modernising rental rules and improving protections for both tenants and landlords.

According to the government, the revised law is intended to bring greater clarity to key aspects of renting, including how notice is given, the different types of tenancy available, and the process for increasing rent.

One of the central changes is the creation of a Rent Tribunal, which will provide tenants with an independent body to challenge rent increases during an active tenancy.

Housing Minister Deputy Sam Mézec has now signed the Ministerial Decision bringing the legislation into force. The Residential Tenancy Amendment (Jersey) Commencement Order 2026 means the updated law will take effect on 15 April 2026.

Mézec said the changes represent an important step for renters across the island.

“The commencement of the amended Residential Tenancy Law marks a major milestone in improving security, clarity and fairness for thousands of islanders who rent their homes,” he said.

He added that detailed guidance and a new model tenancy agreement would also be published to help both landlords and tenants understand the updated rules.

“These resources will help landlords and tenants prepare for the changes and ensure the transition to the new system is smooth and well understood,” he said.