The government’s decision to remove a clause from the Renters’ Rights bill allowing landlords to require tenants to take out pet damage insurance has drawn criticism from both campaigners and landlord groups, according to media outlet LandlordZone.
The groups said the move could reduce access to pet-friendly rental housing. The dropped clause had been promoted by advocacy group AdvoCATS as part of its Heads for Tails! campaign, launched in 2021. The campaign proposed a compromise allowing tenants to take out insurance to cover potential damage caused by pets, which, in turn, will give landlords reassurance while removing the need for additional “pet rent” charges.
Jen Berezai, founder of AdvoCATS, said the change undermines efforts to find a practical solution that works for tenants and landlords alike. According to the group, two-thirds of landlords prefer the option of insurance to manage risk, while tenants could benefit from a more affordable alternative to charges that can reach £300 per pet each year.
Under the bill’s current provisions, landlords are still expected to consider requests from tenants who wish to keep pets and must provide a valid reason to refuse. However, without the option to require insurance, landlords may be left to absorb the cost of any damage or pursue tenants directly for compensation.
The National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) said the decision could make landlords more cautious about accepting pets, reducing the availability of pet-friendly tenancies. Property lawyer David Smith of Spector Constant & Williams also suggested that some landlords may seek other ways to limit pet ownership, the report said.
AdvoCATS further argued that the issue affects a wide portion of the rental market. Many tenants already own pets or intend to, and face challenges in finding accommodation that permits animals.
The group has called on the government to reconsider its position, stating that the removal of the clause could limit tenant choice and deter landlords from offering pet-friendly homes, the report said.
The Renters’ Rights Bill is part of broader reforms to the private rental sector, including the proposed abolition of Section 21 evictions and the introduction of a new housing ombudsman.
