The Model Tenancy Agreement has been changed to make it easier for tenants with well-behaved pets to find rented accommodation, in what is being described as a "massive acknowledgement to Andrew Rosindell's already successful campaign for Jasmine's Law."
The announcement by Housing Minister, The Rt. Hon. Chris Pincher M.P., came while Andrew Rosindell was live on BBC Radio 2's Jeremy Vine Show, discussing his campaign.
Under the new Model Tenancy Agreement, landlords will no longer be able to issue blanket bans on pets. Instead, consent for pets will be 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.
The new agreement incorporates a number of elements proposed by Andrew Rosindell's campaign and its associated legislation, including the concept of "responsible ownership". The new agreement also includes the requirement that any landlords turning down pets in their accommodation must provide a good reason, which was a key component of Andrew’s campaign.
The Model Tenancy Agreement acts as a guideline, or a template and is not legally binding. Andrew Rosindell has said that the campaign to turn these proposals into law "must continue."
On the 26th of February, the M.P. will be hosting an event on Zoom to discuss the legislation he is proposing, and the importance of pets during lockdown. He will be joined by guests including Anna Webb, the broadcaster, dog trainer and nutritionist; Dr Elizabeth Ormorod from the Society of Companion Animal Studies; Sarah Dixon from FOAL Group; Gabby Kuehn from PAAW House, and others.
The Ten Minute Rule Bill introduced by Andrew Rosindell, dubbed "Jasmine's Law" after a Weimaraner from Surrey, had its First Reading in the House of Commons in October 2020.
Andrew Rosindell M.P. said:
"This is a significant step. As the Housing Minister made clear in his statement, blanket bans on pets are 'unfair' and these changes are clear indications that the Government recognises the extent of the problem. I am delighted to have played a role in securing this change..
Nevertheless, the Model Tenancy Agreement is just a template. It is not legally binding. Consequently, this campaign must continue, and we must turn these proposals into law to ensure a pet in every home."
Rachel Williams, Senior Parliamentary Advisor for the RSPCA said:
"This news is a big step forward for pet owning renters. The RSPCA has long been urging the Government to amend their model agreement and it's fantastic to see that they have finally done so. This new agreement makes it clear that pet friendly accommodation should be considered the rule, not the exception.
The RSPCA believes that responsible pet ownership can bring huge benefits to animal and owner alike and we encourage all landlords to use the new model agreement with their tenants. As many existing pet friendly landlords will testify, pet owners can be some of the best tenants. And with landlords' support in encouraging responsible pet ownership measures through their tenancy agreements we could see real progress in animal welfare too."
Sarah Dixon, Director of FOAL Group said:
"We are delighted that the Government have listened and updated their model tenancy agreement. We congratulate Andrew Rosindell MP and fellow campaigners for tackling this issue. Responsible pet owners should not be excluded from the rental market. Our pets are such fundamental members of our families. Devoted owners, like John Chadwick, should not be forced to give up their loyal furry friends in order to be approved for accommodation. The announcement today, is not only welcome, it is morally right."
Gabby Kuehn, Founder of PAAW House said:
"We are delighted with today's government announcement of changes to the model tenancy agreement, in favour of renters with well-behaved pets. It's a massive acknowledgement to Andrew Rosindell's already successful campaign for Jasmine’s Law.
As someone who experienced the heartache of pet discrimination & spoken to many others in similar circumstances it’s fantastic to see our government recognise the importance of the human animal bond and take steps to promote tolerance for those who consider their pets as family."
Becky Thwaites, Head of Public Affairs at Blue Cross said:
“Blue Cross warmly welcomes the new Model Tenancy Agreement stating that landlords can no longer issue blanket bans on keeping pets. We know that this is an issue of great concern to responsible pet owners, many of whom are placed in the traumatic position of having to give up their well-behaved pet due to a change in their circumstances. We believe this will mean pet owners will be able to enjoy the benefits of pet ownership irrespective of their housing situation.”
Jen Berezai, Co-founder of AdvoCATS said:
"AdvoCATS welcomes the new Model Tenancy Agreement announced today, a victory for all those who have campaigned for change. Now, responsible pet owning tenants, many of whom have previously been forced to choose between their pet vs a roof over their heads, will be able to keep their family together."
