New residential tenancy law to come in next month

An order has been signed to bring in the "biggest change" to Jersey's residential tenancy law in more than a decade.

The government said the Residential Tenancy (Jersey) Amendment Law 2025 would modernise the Residential Tenancy (Jersey) Law 2011, strengthening protections for both tenants and landlords.

It is hoped the law change will create clearer processes around notice, tenancy types and rent increases.

The reform will also establish the new Rent Tribunal to give an independent route for tenants to challenge rent increases within a tenancy.

Minister for Housing, Deputy Sam Mézec has signed the Ministerial Decision for the Residential Tenancy Amendment (Jersey) Commencement Order 2026, which brings the amended Law into effect on 15 April 2026.

Mézec said: "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.

"Alongside the legislation coming into force, I am pleased that we are publishing clear and comprehensive guidance, as well as a new model tenancy agreement that reflects the updated requirements.

"These resources will help landlords and tenants prepare for the changes and ensure the transition to the new system is smooth and well understood."

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