Every assured tenancy now includes a right for the tenant to ask to keep a pet. You cannot refuse without a reasonable reason.
What changed
- The request must be in writing and describe the pet. You must reply in writing within 28 days.
- If you reasonably ask for more information, you have until seven days after the tenant provides it. The deadline can also be extended while you seek a superior landlord's consent.
- Refusing is reasonable where a superior lease bans pets, or requires consent that has not been given despite your reasonable efforts.
- You cannot take a separate pet deposit, and you cannot require the tenant to take out pet insurance. Both ideas were dropped before the Act passed.
What it means for you
- The tenancy deposit, capped at five weeks' rent, is the only money you hold against pet damage. Tenants are still liable for any damage beyond fair wear and tear.
- Check what your landlord insurance covers for pet damage.
- Keep a written record of every request and your reasons for any refusal. Generic answers such as ‘no pets’ will not stand up.