NOAH endorses report to support pets in rented accommodation
"NOAH believes that improving the ability to share our lives with companion animals benefits both people and animals." - Dawn Howard, NOAH CEO.
The National Office of Animal Health (NOAH), has announced its endorsement of a new report to support pets in rented accommodation.
Published on 2 September 2021 by Jen Berazai, co-founder of AdvoCATS, the new 'Heads for Tails!' report outlines key policy recommendations that the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) could take forward to make it easier for tenants to rent with pets in the UK.
Supported by over 30 charities, landlord groups, housing associations and more, the report's main policy recommendation is to amend the Tenant Fees Act (2019) in order to include pet deposits and/or pet insurance in the list of permitted payments.
As a result of the Tenant Fees Act, currently one in five landlords who previously allowed pets no longer do, as they have lost a form of security in being unable to require payments for pets.
Research held by AdvoCATS suggests that 75 per cent of landlords support the provision of pet insurance to protect property, and over half of UK pet owners would be willing to take out pet insurance if required by a landlord.
NOAH CEO Dawn Howard commented on the report: “Renting in the UK with a pet is extremely challenging, with a small number of properties on the rental market advertised as pet friendly. We launched our campaign, ‘Securing the Right to Rent with Pets’ earlier this year and are delighted to support the ‘Heads for Tails’ report recommendations, to make this a reality.
“The MHCLG are aware of the problem: indeed, they have updated the Model Tenancy Agreement (MTA) for England, removing the ability for landlords to issue a blanket ban on pets – instead, consent for pets is the default position, and landlords will have to object in writing within 28 days of a written pet request from a tenant and provide a good reason for refusal. It’s a very positive step which we welcome, but there’s the potential to do a lot more.
“At NOAH, we are proud to endorse this policy recommendation, and look forward to continuing to support AdvoCATS as they promote this policy to the MHCLG.”
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
