'Wrecking ball' tenancy reform bid defeated

An amendment by Deputy Sir Philip Bailhache threatened to get rid of most of the tenancy reforms

Changes aimed at increasing protections for tenants and landlords have made a significant step forward after an amendment to remove most of the reforms was rejected by the States Assembly.

Deputy Sam Mézec, the housing minister, proposed reforms to the island's rental tenancy law which would mean rent increases could not be higher than inflation and the use of fixed term tenancies would be limited.

However, an amendment by Deputy Sir Philip Bailhache threatened to get rid of most of those reforms.

Sir Philip admitted that his was "a wrecking amendment".

"I think the ministers' amendments are so deeply flawed that they need a wrecking ball," he said.

In his 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.

Sir Philip told the assembly: "The ministers' amendments are not based on data but upon misconceptions that there are revenge evictions and numerous instances of extortionate behaviour by landlords, but the existing law can take care of such behaviour to the extent that it exists."

There was some strong support for Sir Philip's amendment, but it was ultimately defeated by three votes.

Deputy Sam Mézec brought forward plans to improve protections for landlords and tenants including limiting rent increases to 5%

Deputy Mézec said: "The motivation behind the law is the honest and sincere belief that the current law is not fit for purpose."

He added: "The framework I am proposing for tenancy types will deliver greater security of tenure for tenants whilst providing enhanced pathways for landlords to regain possession of their properties when they need to."

The States Assembly will continue to debate the tenancy reforms on Thursday.