Draft law defines letting roles

A new law which sets out the rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants has been put forward by Jersey's housing department.

The aim of the draft Residential Tenancy (Jersey) Law is to define the roles of each party and sets out basic requirements for tenancy agreements.

It will cover notice periods to be given by both parties wishing to end an agreement.

The law also details court processes to be followed when an eviction is needed.

Deposit scheme

In addition, it allows for a tenancy deposit scheme to be created, which would allow tenants to receive their deposits when they are entitled to them.

The draft law was lodged in the States by Housing Minister, Senator Terence John Le Main.

According to Assistant Housing Minister Deputy Sean Power, the law is an important step which clearly sets out the roles of landlords and tenants in a modern and workable law.

However, the law will only apply to landlords and their locally qualified tenants who let residential accommodation.

Deputy Power added: "The Minister is committed to a scheme that protects the deposits of tenants, and this legislation creates the foundation on which such a scheme can be built."