The Renters’ Rights Bill, which passed through Parliament, marks a big win for pet owners renting in England. Under the new law, landlords can no longer unreasonably refuse pets in private rental properties, giving tenants more freedom to live with their furry companions.
What’s Changed?
Pets bring warmth and happiness to any home, and responsible pet ownership should be supported even in rented properties. Under the new bill, landlords will no longer be able to unreasonably refuse a tenant’s request to keep a pet, giving renters the right to challenge unfair decisions and enjoy a fairer rental experience.
We know that landlords, on the other hand, are concerned about potential damage caused by pets. The bill will allow landlords to require pet insurance covering damage. 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.
What is a reasonable reason for a landlord to refuse a tenant having a pet?
Landlords must carefully review each pet request on a case-by-case basis. Because every property, landlord, and tenancy is different, the law can’t define every scenario where refusing a pet is reasonable.
However, if a superior lease prohibits pets, refusal will always be considered justified. Clear guidance will be provided to help both landlords and tenants make fair, informed decisions.
What happens if a landlord unreasonably refuses?
If a tenant believes their landlord has unreasonably refused a pet request, they can escalate the matter to the Private Rented Sector Ombudsman or, if necessary, take the case to court. The outcome will depend on the evidence and reasoning presented by both sides.
What happens if a pet damages a property?
The Tenant Fees Act 2019 is being updated to allow landlords to require insurance for pet-related damage. If a landlord arranges this insurance themselves, the reasonable cost can be recovered from the tenant.
Tenants’ deposits may also be used to cover any damages, but landlords cannot claim twice for the same issue. In rare cases where both the insurance and deposit don’t cover the full cost, landlords may pursue the remaining amount through the courts, in line with existing rental regulations.
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