What happened in the Lords?
A series of amendments sought to clarify and expand tenants’ rights around pet ownership. These included preventing landlords from revoking permission for pets once granted, and tightening the criteria around what could constitute a “reasonable” refusal.
Animal welfare charities were cited during the debate, with claims that rental restrictions are a leading reason for pet abandonment in the UK.
Ministers seeking a balanced approach
Baroness Taylor of Stevenage, responding for the UK Government, acknowledged these concerns but defended the Bill’s current provisions. Under Clause 12, tenants can request to keep a pet, and landlords must consider the request reasonably. Refusals must be in writing with valid grounds, and landlords can require tenants to carry pet insurance.
Baroness Taylor argued that this framework already balances tenant and landlord interests. Overly prescriptive legislation, she suggested, could create unintended consequences and operational difficulties for landlords and agents.
What could this mean for the Bill?
While we welcome measures that clarify responsibilities—such as pet insurance and written requests—it remains vital that agents and landlords retain flexibility when managing properties and assessing suitability on a case-by-case basis.
The UK Government’s current approach requires landlords to give written reasons for refusal and permits reasonable conditions, aligning with much of what Propertymark has advocated. However, the pressure for more robust tenant rights in this area is mounting.
Next steps
None of the amendments were adopted at the Committee stage, but the issue is far from settled. The Renters’ Rights Bill will return to the Lords for Report Stage in June 2025. Further amendments may be introduced, and Propertymark will continue to monitor developments and engage with policymakers to ensure the voice of agents and landlords is heard.
In the meantime, letting agents are encouraged to review their tenancy agreements and policies around pets, ensuring they are clear, consistent, and legally compliant under the forthcoming legislation.
Supporting agents to adapt
We urge our members to stay engaged and to continue sharing feedback, as real-world insights from letting agents are vital in informing last-minute improvements. We provide regular updates and support to members online, via email, and social media. Visit your online account to update your communication preferences and register for updates.
We are also dedicated to helping agents prepare for the changes that are coming. We provide resources, including detailed guides and practical advice, to help agents understand and adapt to the Renters’ Rights Bill. In addition, we run webinars and events to brief agents on the Bill’s progress and what it means for their businesses.
We remain committed to working with the UK Government so that this landmark legislation achieves its goals without jeopardising the supply of homes, and to ensure our members are ready to implement the new rules as soon as they become law.
Renters' Right Bill – what happens next
The Renters' Rights Bill is set to complete its Lords Committee Stage in mid-May, so hear from the Propertymark team as they provide a detailed overview of key developments and next steps.
