For a country which claims to be a nation of pet lovers, the UK has been a tricky place for renters to live with their pets.

However, in early 2021, the Government introduced some changes that may make things easier for those looking to rent with their pets.

Consumer rights

A new standard tenancy agreement was introduced under the new Model Tenancy Agreement in January 2021 by Housing Minister Rt Hon Christopher Pincher MP. The Model Tenancy Agreement is the Government’s recommended contract for use by landlords. Under this agreement landlords will no longer be able to simply say ‘no pets’ from the outset.

Can I automatically have a pet in rented accommodation?

The short answer to this is no. As a tenant you can request that a pet lives with you. At this point, the landlord has 28 days in which to object in writing to a pet request and to provide a good reason.

It is also worth noting that the Model Tenancy Agreement acts as a guideline so it is not legally binding.

If the landlord is happy for you to have a pet, you should be aware that you are still responsible for any damage that may be caused. Whilst the landlord can’t ask for a deposit of more than 5 weeks of the rent if you have a pet, they can charge a higher rent for the property.

Political promise

In October 2020, Andrew Rosindell MP introduced a Ten-Minute Rule Bill (Private Members’ Bill) entitled the Dogs and Domestic Animals (Accommodation and Protection) Bill.

This Bill is proposing that pet owners pass a “responsible ownership test” before they can move in with their pet. For a dog, for example, this test could include:

• Ensuring any vaccinations are up to date

• Understanding of basic commands

• Making sure it is microchipped

Watch this space

The bill is still waiting for its second reading in the House of Commons so there is a long way to go before it might become law.

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Remember the content provided in this article is for information purposes only and should not be considered as advice.