ukpets logo
Pet Classifieds Pet Classifieds
  • For Sale
  • For Adoption
  • For Stud
  • Wanted
Post An Ad
Pet Care Blog
  • All Pet Care
  • Training Tips
  • Health / Grooming
  • General Advice
  • Interesting Articles
Tools Tools
  • Dogs
  • All Dog Breeds
  • Breed Finder Quiz
  • Compare Dog Breeds
  • Cats
  • All Cat Breeds
  • Breed Finder Quiz
  • Compare Cat Breeds
Account Account
Register
Sign In
Connect With Us:
  • Classifieds
  • Blog
Advanced Search Post an Ad
£0£2000+

Calls for More Flexible Housing Policies to Allow Pets

Share this: Facebook Twitter Email

a woman cuddling her pet catHaving pets has a long list of benefits. ‘Having a pet can have such a positive impact on an individual’s quality of life and wellbeing,’ stated Conservative London Assembly Member Steve O’Connell.

However, many were still hindered by housing restrictions. This time, there have been calls for the Mayor of London and councils to allow social housing tenants to have pets.

Proposal

O’Connell proposed the motion to introduce flexible housing policies during an Assembly plenary meeting.

It is believed that 1% of pet owners have fewer doctor visits and 60% are likely to make conversations with people around their neighbourhood. However, social housing tenants may not reap the benefits of pet ownership, unless a policy change is set.

‘We want the Mayor to use his considerable influence to persuade councils and housing associations to bring in more flexible policies which allow a greater number of tenants to keep a pet,’ O’Connell added.

The motion was seconded by Assembly Member Tom Copley, stating, ‘I really welcome Battersea’s new report on pet-friendly properties. This is an issue that I feel personally very strongly about; I’m a private tenant and I’m not allowed pets.’

It was supported by claims that over 10% of dog owners are forced to give up pets due to the landlord’s housing restrictions.

‘I can’t imagine how distressing and heart-breaking it must be to have to give up your pets because your landlord won’t allow you to keep them,’ added Copley.

With the positive effects brought by pet ownership on mental health, it is estimated that it saves the National Health Service (NHS) £2.5 billion a year.

Pet-Friendly Properties Campaign

The Assembly recognised the Battersea Dogs & Cats Home for their massive efforts on the welfare of dogs and cats in London. Further, the report reveals that there is only a quarter of local authorities that allow tenants to have dogs. Moreover, half of the local authorities allow tenants to have cats.

Challenges in Finding Pet-Friendly Homes

a woman with her daughter and dog crossing at the roadSadly, 78% of pet owners face problems in finding a rental space. Most landlords perceive allowing pets to the property as a gamble. As for those who allow pets, chances are there are additional requirements such as a second security deposit. Some only allow certain breeds of a particular weight. That being said, many pet owners are left with no other choice but to give pets to friends or to a rehoming centre.

Tips During a Search for Pet-Friendly Homes

1. Do your own research in advance.

It is important to allow yourself plenty of time to search for a pet-friendly accommodation. It is best to have an assessment of the new place to see if it is suited for you and your furry friend to move in.

2. Win over your letting agents.

Make light conversations about your pet and show them pictures of your furry friend. The pictures should represent how cute and harmless your pet is. Know that some agents may help persuade homeowners to consider your application.

You may also like: The Only 5 Tips You Need to Take Good Photos of Your Pet with a Mobile Phone

3. Make a great first impression to your landlord.

The right documentation proving that you have a good record as a tenant will already win your landlord over.

4. Prepare to provide necessary pet documentation.

an eyeglasses with some documents related to a petFor your pet to win over your landlord’s heart, you need to gather all necessary documents for your pet especially for dogs and cats, including:

  • A spay/neuter certificate
  • Microchip and licence numbers
  • Up-to-date records on vaccinations
  • Vet’s contact information
  • Recent photos of your pets

Such documentation can be accessed from your local vet. It would also help if you can provide a pet reference from your previous landlord.

5. Follow your lease agreement.

It is best to openly share that you have a pet through your application. It should mention important details such as your pet’s size, breed, behaviour, and others. Remember that owners may file an eviction lawsuit against you for breaching the agreements when they are not informed of the presence of any animal within their premises.

6. Offer a pet deposit.

If it is not included in the tenancy agreement, consider paying for an additional pet deposit. Some landlords may agree to monthly deposits of about £25 to £50, whilst others may ask for an additional two weeks of rent on top of the standard deposit.

FREE E-BOOK

home-remedies-for-dog-health-issues
Get your FREE e-book on

Home Remedies for Most Common Dog Healthcare Issues

when you subscribe to your weekly dose of pet-infused newsletters

Packed with solutions and ideas for treating
common health issues for your dog at home.

Share this: Facebook Twitter Email

Hannah Mitchell

Related Stories

Adventures of a Pet Transporter
Adventures of a Pet Transporter
5 Things to Check When Choosing a Dog Boarding Kennel
5 Things to Check When Choosing a Dog Boarding Kennel
What Does Dog Barking Noises Tell Us?
What Does Dog Barking Noises Tell Us?
Latest Stories
  • How Big Does a Cane Corso Get?
  • 6 Natural and Cruelty-Free Cat Deterrents for Your Garden
  • Are Blueberries Good For Dogs? Top 7 Health Benefits
  • How Long Do Gerbils Live?4 Ways to Prolong a Gerbil’s Lifespan
  • 6 Healthy Homemade Puppuccino Recipes
  • Do Cats Have Periods When in Heat?
  • How Often Should You Worm a Dog?
  • Featured Story

    How Big Does a Cane Corso Get?
    How Big Does a Cane Corso Get?

    The immense size of a Cane Corso makes him a formidable canine companion that can easily deter threats. Knowing how big the breed will give us an idea … [Read More...]

    Latest Pets for Sale
    8
    English Bulldog for Rehoming
    Rare Color English Bulldog Puppies for Sale From Top Lines

    Craven Arms

    2,200

    8
    Sproodle For Sale
    Sproodle puppies (mini) for sale

    Ipswich

    800

    4
    Cute Dachshund For Sale
    Miniature Dachshund bitch

    Nottingham

    2,400

    5
    Mixed Breed For Sale in the UK
    3 white male kittens ready to leave now

    Wellingborough

    150

    View All
    Post Pet Advertisements
    For Free!
    Sign Up Now
    UK Pets Tools Dogs
    • Dog Breed Selector Quiz
    • Dog Breeds (A-Z)
    • Dog Breed Groups
    • Compare Dog Breeds
    • Dog Names
    Cats
    • Cat Breed Selector Quiz
    • Cat Breeds (A-Z)
    • Compare Cat Breeds
    • Cat Names
       Services
    •    Pet Sitters
    •    Pet Transport
    •    Pet portraits
    •    Pet Cremation
    •    Dog Walker
    •    Dog Training
    •    Dog Grooming
    •    Dog Photography
    •    Dog Kennels
    •    Hydrotherapy For Dogs
    •    Catteries
    Dogs & Puppies for Sale
    • Mixed Breed Dogs & Puppies for Sale
    • French Bulldogs for Sale
    • American Bullies for Sale
    • Labrador Retrievers for Sale
    • Cockapoos for Sale
    • Cocker Spaniels for Sale
    Cats & Kittens for Sale
    • Mixed Breed Cats & Kittens for Sale
    • British Shorthair Cats & Kittens for Sale
    • Ragdoll Cats & Kittens for Sale
    • Bengal Cats & Kittens for Sale
    • Sphynx Cats & Kittens for Sale
    • Maine Coon Cats & Kittens for Sale
    Other Pets for Sale
    • Birds for Sale
    • Rabbits for Sale
    ukpets logo
    • About Us
    • Frequently Asked Questions
    • Terms of Service
    • Privacy Policy & Cookie Usage
    • Contact Us
    • Advertise
    • Pet Insurance
    • Post Free Pet Ads
    Copyright © 2023 UKPets. All rights reserved.