A controversial survey by an insurance firm suggests almost half of landlords welcome the government’s new Model Tenancy Agreement which allows pets in rental properties. 

In January Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick recommended a new contract template for landlords to use with tenants. 

Previously landlords using the agreement were able to issue blanket bans on pets in their properties but landlords who use the new contract will now have to object in writing within 28 days of a written pet request from a tenant and provide a good reason. 

However, although no official figures exist, it is thought few landlords use the model tenancy.

But this new survey from Direct Line Business Insurance says just 30 per cent of landlords say that they would submit an objection, even though currently only seven per cent of landlords advertise pet-friendly properties.

The insurance firm’s survey says it’s received an enthusiastic response from tenants with 62 per cent saying that they are happy. 

The main reasons for tenant support was that three in five believed fewer pet owners having to give up their animals, while had say it will mean fewer animals being stuck in animal trusts or rescue centres. And 35 per cent stated that they already had pets so it will make it easier to find a property in the future.

Tenants who have kept a secret pet in their rented property told the insurance firm they did this because they knew they would be denied if they asked consent, or they already owned a pet at the time of the tenancy, or they forgot to check with the landlord. 

Jamie Chaplin, Landlord Business Manager at Direct Line, says: “The new Model Tenancy Agreement brings good news for animal-loving tenants, with responsible owners able to keep well-behaved pets in rented properties wherever the government’s recommended legal template is in use.

“And with a majority of landlords stating that they do not intend to submit an objection under the terms of the new Model Tenancy Agreement, it looks like more pet owners can rent properties with furry friends without worrying about breaching their tenancy agreement – as long as they are well-behaved.”