Regular readers of this blog will know that a new Model Tenancy Agreement has been published by the government. It is a pet-friendly contract that is now recommended for use on all tenancies.

Basic things for pet-owners to know

We have been pro-pet or some time, and many of our clients are happy for residents to move in with well-behaved, vaccinated animals. First though, tenants will need to get a pet request form signed off by all parties and approved by Ringley. There are a number of points to note. First, to help our clients keep their properties clean and their fixtures and fittings in good repair, we don’t allow monkeys, uncaged birds, ferrets or reptiles in the blocks we manage, other than by prior arrangement with the landlord. Animals listed in the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 may not be kept at the property. Dog owners must also specify the breed of their pet and we reserve the right to refuse certain animals. Any dog listed under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 will not be permitted. All dogs and cats must be vaccinated and we will ask for evidence of this.

What we expect from the pet-owners

We expect tenants living in blocks with communal amenities to use their common sense when it comes to pets. Animals are not allowed in gyms or pool areas. If they are being walked or taken through communal areas, cats must be in a carrier and dogs on leads or in a cage. We also ask residents not to leave dogs in their flat alone overnight and emphasise that you are responsible for the welfare of your own pet under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. If the manager for the site is informed that a pet may be neglected or abandoned, they will report the issue to an appropriate animal welfare organisation.

Inside flats, residents must take responsibility for keeping the property free of flea infestations and fouling, and ensure that your pet doesn’t cause a nuisance to other residents. If your animal is found to be excessively noisy or aggressive we reserve the right to rescind your pet permit. Outside, you must take responsibility for cleaning up after your pet. It goes without saying that you are responsible for your own pet insurance – animals are not covered by block insurance! Ringley pet request forms can be found on our Gateway via the Ringley homepage at www.ringley.co.uk Details of the pet for whom permission is given will be held on the system and will be kept updated with vaccination certificates and any other relevant information.