Guernsey Property Law

As one of the largest and most experienced property teams in Guernsey, we combine an in-depth knowledge of the local property law with a pragmatic and straightforward approach. We advise on both residential and commercial property transactions as well as advising on relocating to the Island.

Residential property in Guernsey

Our property team has a reputation for being effective and thorough and for its in-depth understanding of Guernsey property law. We have one of the largest teams of conveyancers and lawyers who can guide you through the complete process of buying or selling your home, helping to ensure a smooth transaction.

We can advise on all aspects of residential property and development work, including buying and selling, leases, building contracts, preliminary agreements and option arrangements. We also have specialist expertise in local planning law, housing, relocation and regulatory advice and can call upon the expertise of other practice areas at Carey Olsen as required.

The team has strong links with local estate agents, industry advisers and government bodies. We are part of a broad network of support, which is especially useful to individuals and businesses that are new to the island.

The housing market in Guernsey falls into two categories – the Local Market and Open Market

The Local Market

The Local Market has significantly more properties on it and is open to people born and brought up in Guernsey or who have been granted specific permission to live here.

The Open Market

The Open Market is for those who do not meet the criteria to live in Local Market accommodation. The number of properties on the Open Market is limited. The Open Market is often the simplest option for people relocating to Guernsey who have rights of abode in the UK but who do not hold local qualifications or have specific residential permissions. These properties are generally more expensive and caters to HNWI's and their families.

Commercial property in Guernsey

Our commercial property team acts for a wide client base that includes the major developers and lenders as well as landlords, vendors, investors and purchasers. We advise on a broad range of commercial real estate and development projects and combine technical expertise with a commercial approach. Our work includes acquisitions and disposals, landlord and tenant agreements, financing and secured lending transactions, joint venture agreements as well as development and infrastructure projects.

We are also instructed on a range of contentious and non-contentious matters, including planning appeals and other construction related disputes.

We work closely with surveyors, valuation companies, trust professionals and property portfolio managers and, as a full-service firm, can provide legal advice in relation to planning, housing, relocation, regulation, taxation, litigation and insolvency.

We also support Carey Olsen’s wider practice teams on the commercial property aspects of merger and acquisition transactions.

Relocation and HNWI Services

If you are considering relocating to Guernsey we can advise you on the relocation of your assets, investments and business interests to the Bailiwick, and on all aspects of both commercial and residential property. We have the local knowledge and experience to provide comprehensive guidance on the immigration process, and our lawyers can also introduce you to key contacts in the relocation and private wealth sectors. Click here for our Relocate to Guernsey brochure.