BUSINESSES outside of Jersey will be allowed to work in the Island for 30 days without a licence to help speed up repair work in the wake of Storm Ciarán’s devastation, the government has announced.
Assistant Chief Minister Lucy Stephenson has signed a Ministerial Decision allowing Island businesses and individuals to engage construction workers from elsewhere to carry out emergency repairs to buildings and roofs, without the usual requirement for a business licence under the Control of Housing and Work Law.
These workers can only come to Jersey to carry out work for which they have been contracted or engaged in advance by a local business or individual.
The government stressed that these employees were not permitted to go door to door, or to tout for business while in Jersey, meaning local residents should not be directly approached by businesses to offer their services.
Deputy Stephenson said: “We hope that this small change offers assistance to local businesses and residents as they seek to repair, rebuild and recover from Storm Ciarán. The change expires after 3 December 2023 and is felt proportionate in offering quick support to households who require emergency repairs in the short term, whilst allowing resident businesses to manage the longer-term rebuilding.
“Resident businesses are reminded that they are able to apply for extra permissions to employ people on their existing business licences, and that these can be time limited to suit the business need. They are also able to contract non-resident businesses. Officers at the Business Hub at CLS are able to give advice directly and applications will be dealt with in a timely manner.”
Warnings about scam contractors have also been circulating on social media after some Islanders were approached by people looking to exploit the increased demand for repair services.
Scam contractors will often demand upfront payment, only to disappear once the money is exchanged. They may also perform substandard work or cause further damage, leaving property owners with greater losses.
Members of the public are requested to be vigilant of anyone looking to take advantage of the aftermath of Storm Ciarán. This includes verifying contractors’ credentials, avoiding paying up front, and confirming everything in writing.
Government advice to avoid scam contractors…
Verify contractor credentials: Ensure the contractor is licensed, bonded, and insured. If you have any concerns, please contact Trading Standards (448 160) or the Health & Safety Inspectorate (447 300) before commissioning works.
Avoid paying in full upfront: Legitimate contractors typically do not demand full payment before the work is completed.
Get everything in writing: From cost estimates to timelines and warranties, how they will do the job safely, documentation is crucial. A reputable contractor will provide a detailed contract.
Check references: Ask for and contact previous clients to inquire about their experiences.
Report suspicious activity: If you encounter a potential scam, contact the States police on 612 612.
Report a concern…
Any concerns can be reported to Business Hub (444 444), Trading Standards (448 160), the Health and Safety Inspectorate (447 300) or to the States police on 612 612.
