Can Landlords Refuse Pets in 2024?
As we kickstart 2024, tenants and landlords remain curious about the rules and regulations set by the government regarding pets living in rental properties. Most people have pets, and it’s not uncommon for potential tenants to ask their landlord if they can live with them.
Although landlords can consider refusing a pet on their property if they have a valid reason, new laws are helping to improve fairness for tenants and their much-beloved pets. If you’re interested in finding out more about whether or not landlords can refuse pets in 2024, continue reading.
The Rights of Landlords
Landlords hold certain rights when it comes to managing their property. Although tenants and landlords can often disagree with some of the rules set in place, ultimately, the property belongs to the landlord, and they get the final say.
Typically, landlords have opted to implement a blanket ban on pets, in hopes that damage won’t occur and their properties will remain in good condition. However, as time has progressed, more rules are being put in place to maintain fairness for tenants who own pets.
Landlords have the right to conduct inspections on their property when they feel it’s necessary. Although landlords can complete these checks at any time, they do need to give tenants a 24-hour notice period.
Landlords can refuse further tenancy if specific responsibilities aren’t being met by a tenant and they aren’t respecting the rules that have been set. A landlord has the right to take legal action, which often results in evictions.
Common Reasons Why Landlords Refuse Pets
If a landlord believes that their property is too small for a large pet to reside in, or another tenant has a pet allergy, they can refuse to let your pet live there. The reason for a landlord not letting a pet live on their property must be reasonable.
In some cases, landlords refuse a request for a pet if they think that they could cause potential damage to their property; pets damaging a property comes with an array of negative consequences, and you might have to pay repair costs.
Additionally, if a landlord wants to avoid infestation from fleas or ticks, they can also try to deny your pet. Landlords can use their insurance to cover any damages, but in some cases, it can be a struggle for landlords to claim pet damage through insurance.
As a tenant, you should be aware of the model tenancy agreement. This agreement is a recommended contract for landlords that helps renters who have perfectly well-behaved pets that are suitable for living in a rental property.
The agreement states that consent for pets is the default position, and it’s important that a landlord objects to the pet living on their premises, providing a good enough reason, within 28 days of a pet request from a tenant.
If you believe that your landlord has unreasonably refused your pet, and hasn’t given a fair enough reason for refusal, you can contact the private rented sector ombudsman or take the case to court.
Whether this is your first time renting a property, or you’ve had to move from your previous home, we all want a streamlined rental journey. The best option is to disclaim to landlords right away that you have a pet before the process can move on further.
Essentially, until the renter’s reformer bill comes into action, a landlord can refuse your pet. If you need to keep your pet on your property, you’ll need to have written permission from your landlord.
Understanding the Renters Reform Bill
The renter’s reform bill has been designed to make renting a property with a pet much easier. Although the law isn’t in action just yet, it provides a promising future for tenants who need to rent a property while owning a pet.
The introduction of the bill means a landlord can’t unreasonably refuse a pet, and responsible pet owners will have a higher chance of being able to find a house to rent with a pet. The bill will work by giving renter and their pets more flexibility, allowing you to live with your pet without any worries and finding pet-friendly rentals with ease.
You’ll be glad to know that landlords can no longer issue a blanket ban on pets once the bill is in place. If a landlord still refuses your pet even when the bill is in action, you can challenge their decision.
All tenants who own a pet must provide proof that they have pet insurance. You can send proof of your insurance to a landlord directly, or a letting agent. Although an official date for the renter’s reform bill hasn’t been announced, estimations believe that the bill will come into law later in the year.
Finding the Ideal Rental Property for You and Your Pet
If you need expert services, look no further than Peninsular Property. We consist of a team of hard-working, ambitious individuals who are driven and experienced in their respective fields. We have excellent local knowledge of Merseyside, having helped tenants, landlords, and investors alike.
Choosing the right letting agent can be difficult, and the process of finding the right one to work with can be time-consuming; but not when you choose Peninsular Property.
Our team are here to help both landlords and tenants, offering services that are second to none. We all want to have a landlord who knows how to rent out their home successfully, and our experienced team can guide landlords in the right direction.
We aim to make the rental process exciting, and hassle-free. On hand at all times, our team can guide, support and advise you throughout the duration of your time with us. We can help tenants with their application once they’ve found their dream property.
With an array of housing options available to view, moving into your new rental property has never been easier. We provide peace of mind to tenants, and you’ll be pleased to know that we’re a member of the UK Association of Letting Agents (UKALA), offering full client money protection.
Your chosen landlord will make the final decision as to whether or not your application is successful. Landlords might base their decision on numerous factors, including a request for a pet. Until the renter’s reform bill is fully introduced, landlords can refuse pets.
However, we can help you find another rental to apply for by providing you with an extensive property portfolio. To find out more about our services, please don’t hesitate to contact us today. We look forward to hearing from you soon.
