Proposed Law to Abolish No-Pet Clauses

On 29 January, MPs will hear the second reading of the Dogs and Domestic Animals (Accommodation and Protection) Bill, which aims to abolish no-pet clauses in private rental contracts. The bill, introduced by Conservative MP Andrew Rosindell, has received strong support in Parliament and is backed by 11 other MPs.

Government Support for Pet-Friendly Renting

The government has signaled its willingness to allow “responsible and caring” tenants the right to live with their pets. If passed into law, the bill will introduce specific requirements for pet-owning tenants, ensuring pets meet health and safety standards.

Microchipping and Vaccination Requirements

Under existing law, all dogs must be vaccinated and microchipped, with owners facing fines of up to £500 for non-compliance. A public consultation launched in December suggests that cat microchipping may soon become mandatory as well. If the bill passes, both cats and dogs will likely need to be microchipped before tenants can sign a new lease.

Ringley’s Pet-Friendly Rental Policies

At Ringley, we encourage landlords to adopt pet-friendly policies. Our process includes a simple form for potential tenants, requiring a picture of their pet for approval by Freeholders or Management Company Directors. Forms are accessible 24/7 via “The Gateway” on our website.

Pets as Family Members

Andrew Rosindell argues that separating people from their pets is akin to separating them from family members. Unfortunately, many landlords continue to impose pet restrictions, limiting their pool of potential tenants and excluding responsible pet owners.

Preparing for a Pet-Friendly Move

If you're planning to move with a pet this year, ensure they are vaccinated and microchipped before starting your property search. This will help you comply with potential new laws and improve your chances of securing a pet-friendly tenancy.