Anyone who's rented a property will be familiar with the strict rules imposed on pet ownership. Currently, just seven per cent of landlords allow tenants to keep animals.
With more young people and families renting than ever before due to high house prices, lots of tenants are giving up their beloved furry companions to secure accommodation.
The good news is that could all change, thanks to measures ordered by the government.
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On 4th January, Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick called for changes to the model tenancy agreement - the basis of all lease agreements made in the UK - to encourage landlords to allow well-behaved pets in their homes.
Rewriting the tenancy agreement will see many restrictions on responsible pet ownership removed.
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"Pets bring a huge amount of joy and comfort to people's lives, helping their owners through difficult times and improving their mental and physical wellbeing," said Mr Jenrick.
"It's a shame thousands of animal-loving tenants and their
children can't experience this because they rent their homes instead of owning.
"So, I'm overhauling our model tenancy contract."
The changes form part of new measures rolled out by the Tory government aimed at renters.
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As it stands, the recommendations are not legally binding, and landlords are under no obligation to follow them. However, if landlords continue to impose restrictions on well-behaved pets, we could see a new law put in place.
A press statement from the Housing Secretary reads:
"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.
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"But total bans on renters with pets should only be implemented where there is good reason, such as in smaller properties or flats where owning a pet could be impractical."
Topics: Life News, News, Pets, Animals