New model tenancy agreements will revise restrictions on pets

The government is to draw up new model tenancy agreements that will revise the restrictions on tenants having pets.

Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick said more people than ever before are renting and should be able to enjoy the happiness that a pet can bring to their lives. However, currently only around 7% of landlords advertise homes as suitable for animals.  

The government’s model tenancy contracts, which can be used as the basis of lease agreements made with tenants, will now be revised to remove restrictions on well behaved pets.

Mr Jenrick said: “The government is clear there should be a balance with responsible pet owners not being penalised and landlords being more flexible in their approach, and it is right that landlords’ properties should be protected from damage by badly behaved pets.

“I’m overhauling our model tenancy contract to encourage more landlords to consider opening their doors to responsible pet owners. And we will be listening to tenants and landlords to see what more we can do to tackle this issue in a way that is fair to both.

“This is part of this new government’s mission to improve life for tenants, recognising that more are renting and for longer in life. We’ve already taken action, banning unfair letting fees and capping tenancy deposits, saving tenants across England at least £240 million a year, and I will continue to take more steps to secure a better deal for renters up and down the country.”

A revised model tenancy agreement will be published by the government this year to update the relationship between tenants and landlords, and to introduce a Lifetime Deposit scheme, to make moving between properties easier and cheaper. 

Please contact Sonia Dad if you would like more information about the issues raised in this article or any aspect of commercial property law.