Can a freeholder stop me having a pet?

Yes, a freeholder can ban pets with a leasehold no pets clause. For most, the choice of leaving their beloved pet behind is out of the question so they will simply pull out of the purchase of a no pets leasehold flat; but do you need to?

Can you have a pet in a block of flats?

The lease may state that it is prohibited to keep a pet within the apartment, or it may say a pet can be kept in the property with written consent. The lease may also state that consent may not be unreasonably withheld, but may also be revoked at any time.

Can landlords say no pets UK 2020?

Landlords can no longer issue a blanket ban on tenants having pets. Instead, under the government issued model tenancy agreement, the default position on rental property and pets is that a landlord will rent to tenants with pets.

Are landlords allowed to refuse pets UK?

Alongside the proposed bill, the Ministry of Housing updated their standard tenancy agreement so that landlords cannot issue a 'blanket ban' on pets. Allowing pets is now the default position on the government's recommended model tenancy agreement.

Can you be evicted for having a pet UK?

The consequences of keeping pets without permission

If your tenants have pets without permission, you can bring eviction proceedings using a Section 8 notice, under the Housing Act 1988, for breach of the tenancy agreement – but a judge may reject your case if your wish to restrict pets is deemed unfair.

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Can landlords refuse pets UK 2021?

The Government's model assured shorthold tenancy agreement

A Tenant must seek the prior written consent of the Landlord should they wish to keep pets or other animals at the Property. A Landlord must not unreasonably withhold or delay a written request from a Tenant without considering the request on its own merits.

What reason can landlord refuse pets?

However, landlords' biggest reasons for refusing pets in their rental properties include fears of damage, noise, fouling and odours. Tenants should consider these issues before asking their landlord for permission to keep a pet.

Are you allowed pets in leasehold flats?

While these clauses will vary from lease to lease, it is common for them to prohibit pets, save for where there is written permission from the freeholder or managing agent. Indeed, the general theme in the leasehold sector, especially in high-rise leasehold premises, has been to fully prohibit the keeping of pets.

Can landlords say no pets UK 2022?

2022 is a significant year for renters who wish to have a pet in their homes, with the Government confirming changes to its model tenancy agreement. This means that landlords can now no longer issue blanket bans on pets in rental accommodation.

Do landlords have to accept pets?

Do landlords have to accept pets? 'The short answer is yes – unless they have a very good reason not to,' says Vince Courtney, group lettings director at Andrews Property Group. 'Renting with pets has often been an emotive topic and it can cause tensions between landlords and tenants.

How do you get around pet restrictions?

How can I hide my cats from my landlord?

What is a blanket ban on pets?

New rights for animal lovers

The new Dogs and Domestic Animals (Accommodation and Protection) Bill will outlaw blanket bans and allow responsible pet owners a right to live with their pets in any rented or leasehold property in England and Wales.

Can you have pets in share of freehold?

Of note, the share of freehold says that pets are allowed at the discretion of the freeholders, so it's not that the building itself is not allowed pets per se, but that the residents have decided they don't want any more new pets without permission first.

Can you have a cat in a block of flats?

Many cats live happily and comfortably indoors, enjoying life in a flat without the need for a garden space or access to the outdoors. In fact, certain breeds are very well-suited to life indoors, including British Shorthairs and Persians.

Can landlords refuse pets NI?

Under the 2015 Consumer Rights Act, a landlord can only refuse permission for a tenant to keep pets if it is reasonable to do so, for instance on grounds of the animal's size, the damage it could cause and its impact on future rental prospects.

Does no pets include hamsters UK?

Domestic pets such as dogs, cats, rabbits and hamsters are the most commonly found in the UK – and most commonly found in family households – and it's these pets which are the most likely to be accepted by landlords.

Can you own a dog if you buy a flat?

Some leases stipulate that dogs are allowed with the prior written consent of the landlord, although others entirely prohibit keeping dogs in a flat. Sometimes a lease will state that although a dog may be kept with the landlord's prior written consent, that consent may be revoked at any time.

How do I ask my landlord for a pet?

Dear (Name of landlord or manager), I am writing to you today to request permission to adopt a (insert animal) to join our household. As current, responsible tenants, we'd like to make every effort to assure you we'll be courteous pet owners.

Do landlords have to allow emotional support animals UK?

Under Fair Housing, a landlord cannot refuse a prospective tenant based solely on disability and must make reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. Allowing a disabled tenant to have an emotional support animal is a reasonable accommodation.

Can landlords charge extra for pets?

Landlords are prohibited from requesting the occupants of their rental property pay an additional deposit in order to move in with their pets, resulting in many now charging “pet rent”.

What happens if you lie about having pets?

If you're caught sneaking in a pet, your landlord may have the right to evict you. If you're evicted, your landlord may sue you for the remainder of your lease payment.

Should I tell my landlord about my cat?

For starters, lying to your landlord about your cat pet can get you evicted right away. This is a definite possibility if you live in an apartment complex with a strict No-pets policy. This policy is usually implemented because other tenants may be allergic.

Can you have a cat in a rented house?

Even if your tenancy agreement doesn't allow pets, landlords may be willing to be flexible, particularly if it means a tenant may feel more settled. You can help reassure your landlord that your cat is unlikely to cause a problem by taking a few simple steps.

How do I ask my landlord for my dog?