Pet ownership is a contentious subject within the rental property landscape. Historically, securing permission from landlords to keep a pet has been a hurdle for tenants. According to Zoopla, fewer than one in 10 London rental properties were listed as pet-friendly in 2023. However, this limitation is to be addressed with the introduction of the Renters' Rights Bill into legislation.
New policies
Tenants will have the right to request to keep a pet on their property. To do this, the tenant must send the request in writing to the landlord, who must respond within 28 days. This has not been changed from the original Renters (Reform) Bill.
The Government has explained that while it is aware that some landlords are concerned about potential damage caused by pets, the Renters' Rights Bill will allow them to require insurance covering this.
It said: "This will provide landlords with reassurance that any damage caused by a pet can be taken care of, and that the responsibility for preventing and resolving damage caused by a pet will fall to the tenant."
Less stringent landlord approval process
Landlords cannot 'unreasonably withhold consent' when a tenant requests to have a pet in their home. The Renters' Rights Bill will also give the tenant power to challenge any unfair decisions on this front.
What is a ‘reasonable’ reason for a landlord refusing a tenant a pet?
This will be determined on a case-by-case basis. The Government says that, due to the diversity of landlords, tenants, and properties, it would be impossible to legislate for every situation.
It added: “It will always be reasonable for a landlord to refuse a request when their superior landlord prohibits pets. We will provide guidance to landlords and tenants to support decisions.”
If permission for a pet is refused, what happens then?
Either the tenant will accept and the landlord’s word will be final, or if the tenant feels the landlord has rejected their request unreasonably they will be able to escalate their complaint. It will go to the Private Rented Sector Ombudsman or to court. From there, a final decision will be made after evidence from both the landlord and the tenant has been given.
What happens if a pet damages a property?
The Tenant Fees Act 2019 is currently being amended by the Government so landlords can require insurance to cover damage caused by pets in the property. Tenants also pay a tenancy deposit which can be used for damages.
If the insurance and the deposit does not cover the damage incurred by a pet, a landlord could take the tenant to court to recoup costs to repair the damage in line with wider rules in the sector.
Overview
The Renters' Rights Bill marks a significant step forward in protecting the rights of tenants, including those who wish to share their homes with pets. This legislation aims to create a more pet-friendly rental market but still considers landlords in the equation.
Learn of the other changes to expect as part of the Renters' Rights Bill.
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