Renters 'to be allowed to live with well behaved pets' under new rules

Landlords should no longer ban renters from having pets living with them as long as they are well behaved, the government has said.

Those in rental accommodation are often forced to give up their beloved dogs and cats as currently just 7 per cent of landlords advertise their homes as allowing pets.

Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick has now called on landlords to make it easier for responsible pet owners to bring animals into their homes, as reported by Kent Live .

The government's model tenancy contracts will be revised to remove restrictions on well behaved pets to ensure more rentals cater for well behaved pets.

As the number of young families renting soars, the Housing Secretary has said more tenants should be able to enjoy the happiness that furry friends can bring into their lives.

New rules could mean total bans on renters with pets should only be put in place where there is good reason, such as smaller properties where it would be impractical.

It was also emphasised that it should be balanced with a landlord's rights for their property to be protected from damage.

Jenrick said: "Pets bring a huge amount of joy and comfort to people’s lives, helping their owner's through difficult times and improving their mental and physical wellbeing.

"It’s a shame that thousands of animal-loving tenants and their children can’t experience this because they rent their homes instead of owning property.

"So, 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."