Renters’ Rights Bill to become law
The Renters’ Rights Bill, which will bring in huge changes to private renting in England and Wales, will become law after passing its final stage in the House of Commons last week.
The bill, which is now awaiting Royal Assent before formally becoming law, gives tenants the right to request a pet and requires landlords to consider the request fairly, rather than issue a blanket ban. If a landlord refuses, they must provide a valid, evidence-based reason in writing, and the tenant has the right to challenge the decision in court or through the new Private Rented Sector Ombudsman.
The news comes as new research by Rover.com reveals 34% of renters have been denied a property because of a pet, while many have been hit with surcharges averaging £288, simply to keep them with them.
The research reveals that 42% of renters say they would like to own a pet, but only 17% have asked their landlord for one, held back by a fear of rejection (49%) and worries of how they will be perceived as a tenant (21%).
In addition, 46% of renters automatically assume their landlord would be say “no”, but 20% are still unaware that under the new The Renters’ Rights Bill they will be able to challenge a landlord’s refusal.
The research also reveals that 41% of renters have smuggled in their pet, while many have sacrificed living in their dream flat because the landlord wouldn’t allow pets, with 11% even moving back in with their parents.
Rover has launched a Rent-Ready Pet Guide to help tenants make a strong case for keeping or getting a pet, featuring expert advice from canine behaviourist Adem Fehmi and Legal Director at Birketts LLP Alice Harris.
Harris said: “The Renters’ Rights Bill marks a major step forward for pet lovers in rented homes. Tenants will have a legal right to request pet ownership, and landlords must consider each case fairly and reasonably. This change brings hope to thousands of renters who’ve long faced barriers to keeping beloved companions in rented accommodation.
“However, tenants must still act responsibly: they’ll need to provide details about their pet, ensure the property is suitable, and cover any damage caused. The bill strikes a balance, protecting landlords’ interests while giving renters the freedom to build a home with their pets.”
