Channel Islands commercial leases compared

For clients seeking to lease property in both Jersey and Guernsey, understanding the differences and similarities in commercial leases from the outset is invaluable.

Whether you are a local business expanding your operations or an international investor seeking opportunities, this document aims to compare five key aspects of how commercial leases work in each island.

Jersey

• Leases for a period in excess of nine years are passed before the Royal Court on Friday afternoons and are an immovable property interest
• A tenant of commercial premises has no security of tenure and no right to remain in the premises after the term has expired
• Jersey leases terminate automatically at the expiry of the lease or if earlier, by agreement between the parties
• The terms of an assignment of a lease are as stated in the lease whereby most will require the prior consent of the landlord
• Stamp Duty on new contract leases and on the assignment of an existing lease is calculated by multiplying the annual rent by the length of term (subject to maximum multiplier of 21) with any premium added in

Guernsey

• Leases are not an immovable property interest but a personal contract - they are not required to be passed before the Royal Court
• A tenant of commercial premises has no security of tenure and no right to remain in the premises after the term has expired
• Guernsey leases terminate automatically at the expiry of the lease or if earlier, by agreement between the parties
• The terms of an assignment of a lease are as stated in the lease whereby most will require the prior consent of the landlord
• Guernsey leases are not currently subject to document duty

Download the full comparison guide for more information, or speak to one of our team to learn more.