Public Health and Safety in Rented Dwellings - first year of licensing scheme

08 July 2025

​The Government of Jersey has published the first An​nual Report on Public Health and Safety in Rented Dwellings, offering a review of the licensing scheme’s first year in operation. 

The report evaluates the scheme’s introduction, implementation, and impact. It highlights the Government’s work to improving housing standards and protecting Islanders living in rented accommodation. 

Key findings from the first year include: ​

• Over 18,000 properties licensed under the new framework. 
• 203 inspections carried out, with 60% of properties found to have no recorded hazards at the time of inspection. 
• In the remaining 40%, between 1 and 9 hazards were identified per property, offering a valuable evidence base to guide future enforcement and support. 
• Data shows strong consistency between proactive inspections and those carried out in response to complaints, reinforcing confidence in the inspection process and risk-based approach. 

The report also details common hazards, licensing conditions, enforcement measures, and provides a financial summary of the scheme’s operation.

Minister for the Environment, Deputy Steve Luce, welcomed the report’s findings: “This first year of licensing has set a strong foundation for the future. I’m pleased to see over 18,000 rented properties now licensed and a clear demonstration of landlord responsibility across the Island. 

"Most rental homes are being well maintained, which speaks to the shared commitment we all have to improving housing quality. This scheme is helping us raise standards while targeting interventions where they’re needed most.” 

The licensing scheme under the Public Health and Safety (Rented Dwellings) (Jersey) Law 2018 plays a vital role in safeguarding the health, safety, and wellbeing of Islanders living in rented homes. 

The report shows its importance as a long-term policy tool and outlines key priorities for the year ahead.​