Carey Olsen webinar examines Control of Housing and Work law

Employers in Jersey have been urged to ensure they understand how the Control of Housing and Work (Jersey) Law 2012 will affect their business before it is introduced on 1 July 2013.

Carey Olsen employment law specialist, Huw Thomas (pictured), and property associate, Will Whitehead, presented a webinar last week outlining the key aspects of the new legislation and what it means for employers and employees.

Mr Thomas said: “The new law is very much a case of evolution rather than revolution. Its aim is to preserve and maximise the benefits of Jersey's resources, manage population density and to put in place stricter controls on work and housing.

“It is essential that employers are aware of the changes now so they can inform employees and make sure their documentation and procedures ensure compliance with the new regulations.

“Social security cards will be replaced with a registration card and those moving to Jersey to live here, purchase or lease residential property or transfer land and those who are about to start a new job will be affected.

“However, there are a number of exceptions which could benefit employers, in particular those who are part of international finance groups operating in Jersey.

“Employers need to ensure that prospective employees understand the requirement to apply for a registration card and employers should consider providing staff with the relevant documentation to complete to make the process easier. They should also review the position of all agency workers and contract workers they employ," said Mr Thomas.

Mr Whitehead advised participants that, under the new law, all residential accommodation will be registered online and accessible to the public.

“Going forward all housing units will be classified as either qualified or registered and all occupiers and landlords have a duty to notify the Population Office of who is living in a property and on what basis. We would urge any employer or individual with concerns or specific queries to contact the Population Office for further information,” said Mr Whitehead.