Tenant and Landlord Protections Move Forward After Key Vote

Efforts to strengthen rental protections in Jersey have advanced after States Members rejected an amendment that sought to remove most of the proposed reforms.

Housing Minister Deputy Sam Mézec has put forward significant changes to the island’s tenancy law. Under his proposals, rent increases would be capped at inflation, and the use of fixed-term tenancies would be restricted.

However, Deputy Sir Philip Bailhache tabled an amendment aiming to strip out many of these measures, including rent caps, the creation of a rent tribunal, and safeguards against unfair or retaliatory evictions. He openly described his proposal as “a wrecking amendment.”

“I think the minister’s amendments are so deeply flawed that they need a wrecking ball,” Sir Philip told the Assembly. He argued that claims of revenge evictions and widespread landlord misconduct were exaggerated and that existing laws already provided adequate protection.

Although his amendment attracted notable support, it was narrowly defeated by just three votes.

Deputy Mézec said the reforms were driven by a belief that “the current law is not fit for purpose.” He argued the changes would offer tenants greater security while still allowing landlords “enhanced pathways” to recover their properties when necessary.

The States Assembly will resume its debate on the tenancy reforms on Thursday.