RENTED properties may need to be inspected before licences are issued under a new licensing scheme as a three-month transitional period for landlords ended this week.
The Rented Dwellings Licensing Scheme – proposed by former Environment Minister Jonathan Renouf and approved by the States in November – means that it is now illegal for landlords to rent out homes without a licence.
Residential property is considered a rented dwelling for the purposes of the licensing scheme if it is occupied for more than 30 days a year in return for any reward – not confined to money – or in connection with any employment.
However, licences are not required for lodging houses, tourist accommodation or for up to two lodgers if the owner is also resident in the property.
The government said that so far more than 15,000 licences had been applied for, and have either been issued or are in the process of being issued under the new legislation.
Landlords can still make online applications to gov.je/RentedDwellings but the government’s Housing and Nuisance Team may need to inspect properties before granting a licence.
During the three-month transition period – which ended on Wednesday – sessions attended by more than 250 Islanders were held at each parish hall to support landlords with their online applications.
