When can social housing landlords refuse pets?

While Awaab’s Law has taken a lot of focus for social housing landlords, the upcoming Renters’ Rights Act also has some notable compliance features that need to be adhered to.

One that is sometimes overlooked in discussions of the Act is the change to how landlords can handle tenants wanting to keep pets in their property.

As this is something you may soon face as a social housing landlord, it is imperative that you know your rights and responsibilities.

What is changing with a tenant’s right to own pets?

Previously, it was possible for landlords to categorically forbid pets in their properties for any reason.

However, the Renters’ Rights Act has now shifted the balance of power so that tenants have enhanced rights and this includes the ability to keep pets on the property.

You will still have the ability to refuse to allow your tenants to keep pets, but this must follow the series of eligible criteria outlined in the Act.

These criteria are:

• Another tenant has an allergy
• The property is too small for a large pet or several pets
• The pet is illegal to own

Importantly, the following are not valid reasons, and you cannot refuse a pet if you:

• Do not like pets
• Have had issues with tenants who had pets in the past
• Have had previous tenants with pets who damaged the property
• Have general concerns about potential damage in the future
• Think a pet might affect future rentals
• Know the tenant needs an assistance animal, such as a guide dog

How can social housing landlords prepare their properties for pets?

As pet ownership is inevitable in many properties, it is best that you begin preparations now.

It may be necessary to consider how the interior of the property will handle the presence of an animal and it could be wise to replace carpet with hard floors.

We have been advocating for better maintenance preparation and inspection in the wake of Awaab’s Law, and the presence of pets further complicates matters.

You should ensure that you communicate with tenants about their responsibility to keep the pets and property safe.

This will hopefully minimise the damage that pets may cause to your property and reduce the risk of an emergency developing.

You are entitled to get the pet request in writing from your tenant and your decision should also be made in writing.

This ensures that you have sufficient evidence in case your tenant raises an issue with the Housing Ombudsman.

We can help you determine whether your tenant is making a valid claim to keep a pet and help you respond accordingly.

This is one of the many changes that the combined efforts of Awaab’s Law and the Renters’ Rights Act are introducing to give tenants more freedom and security.

As this is changing the rights and responsibilities of social housing landlords, we want to support you during this transition phase and beyond.

For expert support with keeping compliant with Awaab’s Law and the Renters’ Rights Act, speak to our team today.