Tenants Gain Right to Request Pets from 2024
Under new government plans set to take effect in 2024, renters in England will have the legal right to request keeping a pet in their rented home. Landlords will be able to require tenants to take out pet insurance to cover any potential damage, according to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.
The change forms part of the Renters' Reform Bill, which aims to modernise the private rented sector. Currently, only 7% of private landlords advertise properties as pet-friendly, despite 48% of tenants owning a pet, according to a 2021 survey by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.
How the New Rules Will Work
Under the proposed legislation, tenants will be able to formally request permission to keep a pet. Landlords must consider the request and cannot unreasonably refuse. If permission is granted, the landlord may insist on pet insurance to cover potential damage, such as scratched floors or chewed furniture.
The insurance requirement is intended to protect landlords from financial loss while allowing tenants to enjoy pet ownership. The government estimates that around 1.1 million households in the private rented sector would benefit from the change.
Industry Reaction and Implementation
Propertymark, the professional body for estate agents, has welcomed the move but warns that implementation will be key. "Clear guidance is needed to ensure that both landlords and tenants understand their rights and responsibilities," said Timothy Douglas, Head of Policy and Campaigns at Propertymark.
The National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) has expressed support for the principle but raised concerns about insurance costs and availability. "We need to ensure that suitable pet insurance products are available at a reasonable cost," said Chris Norris, Policy Director at the NRLA.
Impact on the Rental Market
The change is expected to reduce the number of pets given up by tenants who struggle to find pet-friendly accommodation. According to the RSPCA, 42% of pet owners in rented homes said they had difficulty finding a property that allowed pets, leading to some being forced to rehome their animals.
The rules will apply to new and existing tenancies, giving tenants the right to request a pet at any point during their tenancy. Landlords who unreasonably refuse a request could face penalties, including fines of up to £5,000.
What Tenants and Landlords Need to Know
Tenants should be prepared to provide a pet reference, similar to a character reference, and details of the pet's breed, size, and temperament. Landlords may also request a pet clause in the tenancy agreement, outlining responsibilities for cleaning and repairs.
The government has announced a 12-week consultation period ending in March 2024, with the legislation expected to come into force later in 2024. The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government stated: "These reforms will create a fairer rental market for tenants and responsible landlords alike."
