Lawyer warns of possible consequences of ending "no-kids" rule

Thursday 15 February 2018

A local lawyer is warning landlords to watch carefully for a change in the law to prevent landlords from discriminating against families with children - as he says it could be a "game-changer" for them.

The proposition was published last week by Deputy Montfort Tadier and will be debated in the States Assembly on 20 March.

While a change in the law would be welcomed by many families on the Island who have struggled to find suitable accommodation, it would have far-reaching consequences for landlords, according to a senior associate from Bedell Cristin.

Jeff O'Boyle of the firm's property team has warned landlords to be aware of the consequences of such a change in the law. He said: "Landlords and letting agents should follow this story very carefully because the proposed change in the law would be a game-changer for the rental market. If the States decide that tenants with children are being discriminated against, landlords will need to set out clear, justifiable grounds when refusing to let property to tenants with children. Any hint of ambiguity in their reasoning may be challengeable on the grounds of discrimination."