Appealing to the Rent Tribunal (Tenants)
Before You Appeal
Only tenants may apply to the Rent Tribunal.
An application may be made where:
- the tenancy is covered by the Residential Tenancy Law
- a proposed rent increase is being challenged
- the matter falls within the Tribunal’s jurisdiction
- the application is made within the required time limit.
Applications must usually be made within 2 months and 2 weeks of the date the landlord gave written notice of the proposed rent increase.
Example:
If a landlord gave notice of a rent increase on 1 May 2026, the Tribunal must usually receive the application by 15 July 2026.
Attempts to Resolve the Issue
Before applying to the Tribunal, tenants and landlords are encouraged to discuss the proposed rent increase directly.
Resolving the matter at an early stage may avoid the need for Tribunal proceedings.
Time Limits
The Tribunal applies time limits strictly. A late application will only be accepted in exceptional circumstances.
Applications should be submitted as soon as possible, and proof of submission retained.
Information and Documents
Before applying, you should gather:
- the rent increase notice
- your tenancy agreement
- correspondence between you and your landlord
- any evidence relevant to the proposed rent increase
- details of why you believe the increase is unlawful or unreasonable.
Copies of all documents submitted to the Tribunal should be retained.
How to Appeal
This section explains how to make an application to the Rent Tribunal to challenge a proposed rent increase. It sets out the steps to complete and submit the application, the information that must be provided, and the supporting documents that should be included.
Completing the Application Form
The application must be made using the Tribunal’s form: Rent Tribunal Appeal Form
Most browsers will allow you to complete the form online. However, we recommend that you download a free copy of Adobe Acrobat Reader in order to complete the form.
The form must be completed clearly and in full. It must:
- be signed and dated
- include all required information
- be submitted within the deadline.
The Tribunal may request further information if necessary.
Information Required
The application should include:
- contact details of the tenant
- details of the landlord
- the address of the property
- details of the proposed rent increase
- reasons for challenging the increase.
The Tribunal may ask for additional information if needed.
Supporting Documents
Relevant supporting documents should be included. These may include:
- the rent increase notice
- the tenancy agreement
- correspondence
- evidence relating to rent levels or property improvements.
Submitting Your Application
Applications must be submitted in writing and may be sent:
- by email
- by post
- in person.
Copies should be retained, together with proof of submission.
Contact Details
Tribunal Service
First Floor, International House
41, Parade
St Helier
JE2 3QQ
Email: renttribunal@courts.je