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In this issue:
If a tenant wishes to keep a pet, they must ask you in writing and provide details about the animal, such as its type, size and its needs.
You have to respond in writing within 28 days. If you need more information to make a decision, you have either the remainder of the original 28 days or an extra 7 days to respond with your final decision, whichever is later.
If you ask for more information about the pet and the tenant does not respond you do not have to consider the request. Read more regarding government guidance on 'If a tenant wants a pet to live with them'.
It is important to ensure all communication is clear and documented.
You must not refuse a request without a valid reason. However, refusal may be appropriate where:
- the property is too small for a large pet or several pets.
- there are health concerns, such as allergies affecting other occupants
- the pet is illegal to own
- lease or freeholder agreements do not allow pets
If you refuse, you should explain your reasons clearly in writing. Tenants can challenge decisions they consider unreasonable. They can make a complaint to you or apply to the court to start court proceedings against you.
Decisions should always be based on the specific circumstances rather than general views about pets.
Refusal is unlikely to be reasonable if it is based on:
- a general dislike of animals
- past experiences with other tenants’ pets
- concerns about possible future damage
- potential impact on future lettings
You should also be mindful that assistance animals, such as guide dogs, require careful consideration.
If you agree to your tenant having a pet, you cannot change your mind or change the tenancy agreement. If you do, your tenant can still keep the pet in the property.
If a tenant wants another pet, they will have to ask for permission again.
If a pet causes damage, your tenant should talk to you about how it will be repaired.
You can keep money from the deposit to cover repair costs caused by pet damage.
You may also be able to claim through insurance if you or your tenant has a relevant policy.
You cannot claim for the same damage twice. For example, you cannot claim insurance and then also deduct the damage from the deposit. You may be committing fraud if you do.
Speak to your tenant first to try and resolve any issues with their pet.
There are things you can do if you’re concerned about antisocial behaviour involving a pet.
If you’re concerned about the welfare of your tenant’s pet, you can contact:
- review each request individually based on the property and tenant
- keep written records of requests, decisions and reasons
- respond within the required timescales
- check lease or freeholder restrictions where relevant
- set clear expectations if permission is granted, including tenant responsibilities
We want to work with you to improve housing in the city. If you want to get in touch with any questions please, contact the team:
Email: hmo@coventry.gov.uk
Telephone: 024 7697 5467
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