Renters’ Rights Act could unlock millions of homes for renters with pets

One in four renters are now more likely to get a pet following the Renters’ Rights Act, according to a new survey.

Research by Mars Petcare and Battersea Cats and Dogs Home reveals that almost a third of tenants (31%) say housing rules have previously stopped them from owning a pet.

Under the Renters’ Rights Act, tenants have the right to request a pet, and landlords cannot unreasonably refuse permission.

Hugely positive step forward

According to the data, almost half (48%) of pet owners in rental properties had to move in order to get or keep their pet due to rental housing restrictions, with a fifth (20%) having to offer their landlord more financial compensation to keep their pet.

Previously, only 7% of rental properties were advertised; however, under the new law, more than four million homes across England could now be open to pets.

Peter Laurie, CEO of Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, welcomed the change.

He said: “For too long, the inability to rent with pets has been a heartbreaking barrier for so many responsible owners and the second most common reason pets are handed over to us at Battersea.

“This change in the law is a hugely positive step forward, recognising that pets are not a ‘nice to have’, but an integral part of people’s lives and wellbeing.”

Benefits of being a pet parent

However, despite the change, 35% of renters say they don’t know anything about their new rights to request a pet under the Act.

To help with this, Mars and Battersea Dogs & Cats Home have released a Renting with Pets guide to help tenants and landlords.

The guide explains how to create a pet profile for tenants and what landlords should do if they have concerns about pets.

Nick Foster, general manager North Europe, Mars Pet Nutrition, said there are many benefits of having a pet.

He said: “Pets really do make a house a home and we’re incredibly proud to work with our long-term partners at Battersea to help bring about this important change in the law.

“The government’s decision to remove unnecessary barriers to pet ownership for renters recognises just how much it means to people and families across the country, and we’re so pleased that this opens the door to more people than ever being able to experience the happiness and wellbeing benefits that come from being a pet parent.”