Jersey rental tenancy reform vote delayed

Politicians are set to vote on the reforms on Friday

A vote on reforms to rental tenancy laws in Jersey has been delayed.

Housing Minister Deputy Sam Mezec proposed the introduction of a raft of measures to improve the rights of people who rent their homes - including capping rent increases to match inflation and limiting the use of fixed-term tenancies.

A vote was due to take place on Thursday afternoon, but the States agreed to delay the final vote until they had seen exactly how the changes would alter the previous 2011 law.

Politicians will vote on the reforms later.

In addition to Mezec's reforms, politicians approved a series of amendments, including one to remove the 5% rent increase cap the housing minister had proposed.

On Thursday, the States Assembly defeated an amendment from deputy Sir Philip Bailhache to remove most of the reforms proposed.

In his "wrecking amendment" proposal, Sir Philip suggested getting rid of provisions to introduce rent caps, a rent tribunal for tenants to appeal rent increases, and plans to protect tenants from unfair or revenge evictions.

His amendment was defeated by three votes.