Chief Minister publishes response to property leaders

Thursday 06 July 2023

The Chief Minister has expressed support for a proposed landlord licensing scheme in a letter responding to leaders in the property industry.

In her response, which has been made public in the interests of transparency, Deputy Kristina Moore further said she hopes to host a discussion on the concerns raised by an initial letter's signatories, which included estate agents, lenders, and construction company heads.

Broadlands director Harry Trower last week wrote to Ministers to express "severe concern regarding the recent interference in the market by the Government", referencing increased stamp duty, changes to landlord and tenant legislation, and a proposed landlord licensing scheme.

Pictured: Director of Broadlands Harry Trower said that Government "interventions" were an "attack" on the property market. (Jon Guegan)

Deputy Moore wrote in response: "I share your view that we need to support the effective operation of markets. As part of that aim, islanders rightly expect appropriate protections, especially when it comes to their home."

"For this reason, and when the need is apparent following due consultation and engagement, I am supportive of new regulation which is proportionate to the objectives it is designed to achieve.

CLICK TO ENLARGE: The full letter written to Ministers by Broadlands director Harry Trower last week.

"It is absolutely normal for commercial activities, which include renting property, to be regulated to achieve public benefits."

She continued: "I also continue to believe that a carefully applied stamp duty regime that aids owner-occupiers is important."

In the remainder of her response, Deputy Moore outlined the various projects underway by ministers, including a review of the planning service, improvements to the sewage network, investment in the construction industry, and a home ownership scheme – as well as increasing the number of homes for islanders.

Pictured: Chief Minister Kristina Moore said she hoped to host discussions with the letter's signatories.

She concluded: "Ministers have a relentless focus on addressing housing, skills shortages, and supporting islanders with the cost-of-living crisis. This is why the budgetary measures we have taken are so important, helping islanders with targeted support through the tax and benefit system.

"I know that Ministers are willing to work with you, and others, as we promote the best interests of the island in this challenging economic time. This includes learning and responding to your concerns. I am confident that our approach to consultation, which is inclusive, coordinated and exceptionally broad, supports this.

CLICK TO ENLARGE: The Chief Minister's response in full.

"Please be assured that I would very much like to continue this discussion, and having conferred with ministerial colleagues, we are working with the Chamber of Commerce to finalise arrangements to host a discussion on this subject."

Deputy Jonathan Renouf has lodged proposals for a licensing scheme to regulate rental properties, which, if adopted, would make it a requirement for rented dwellings to be licensed under a scheme that would come into force on 1 January 2024.

And it would be an offence, punishable with a fine of up to £10,000, to allow a property to be used as a rented dwelling unless it had a valid licence.