Tenants Should Be Allowed Pets
Industry groups are now clamouring for landlords to allow pets into their homes. During the summer, the Kennel Club revealed that two out of five new puppy owners bough a pet as Covid companion. Pet owners have unanimously agreed that their furry friends helped them survive the lockdown.
Mars Petcare's survey conducted by YouGov also reveals that 53 per cent of private tenants would rent out their apartments longer if their landlords were friendlier to pet ownership.
The Deposit Protection Service last month issued new guidelines for agents and landlords to follow in response to a surge of pet ownership. The DPS insists: "Being able to accommodate their pet will be a decisive factor when tenants consider where to live, and landlords who allow domestic animals may see increased demand for longer tenancies"
"Landlords should as ever ensure the paperwork reflects any changes to the terms of the tenancy and be clear about any rules applying to new pets. Tenants should also understand and respect any obligations that come with their new companions and consider any changes that are necessary to their tenancy agreements to reduce the chances of issues when they move out."
A Private Member's Bill is now parliament submitted by Romford MP, Andrew Rosindell. The bill, which is due for its Second Reading on the 29th of January 2021, calls for the restriction of 'no pets' policies imposed by landlords or agents.
The bill has gained controversy among agents and landlords as they fear that this will cause more damage to their properties. Landlords contend that some pet owners care poorly for their pets causing unpleasant odours to fill the homes, which in turn will affect its value.
The bill has anticipated such a response. It proposes that tenants can only be allowed to have pets if they have shown their ability to care for other creatures. A checklist of conditions has been listed to identify what makes a 'responsible pet owner.' The conditions for pets includes (1) confirmation of vaccinations, (2) certified spayed or neutered pets, and (3) dewormed and parasite-free.
Property firm Apropos by DJ Alexander fully supports this movement. In a response reported by Property Wire, the firm's representatives commented:
"If a landlord allows a tenant to have a pet then they are more likely to stay longer, they may well be willing to pay a premium, and this will foster better relations. Increasingly, landlords must realise that they are providing homes to people and the more amenable they are, the more comfortable they can make their property, the more likely they will get longer tenancies and stronger rental income.
"Landlords should be assured that this bill offers them protection for their properties whilst also giving tenants the chance to have companionship from a pet. With appropriate insurance, the landlord can easily be covered for any damage caused by the pet.
"Buy to rent developers are increasingly developing pet-friendly properties as they see this as a major incentive for tenants who want to live a life as similar to that of a property owner as possible.
"The Andrew Rosindell Bill should not even be regarded as controversial as it is simply offering a basic human right to tenants that they should never have had restricted. This Bill, if introduced as legislation, is righting a wrong and should be welcomed by landlords everywhere."
