Keeping a pet

We understand that pets can be a big part of the family and that animals can provide comfort to you and help with your wellbeing.

We have a small number of flats where it's not appropriate to have a cat or dog and we'll make sure this is clear in our available homes adverts and during pre-tenancy assessments.

Please read the information below about our pet policy.

Can I keep a pet in my home?

We'll allow you to keep a pet at your home. In flats, this is restricted to a small / medium sized dog or one cat.

Under no circumstances will permission be given to breed or offer any animal(s) for sale from a Group property.

If outside accommodation for a pet is required, other than a hutch or pen for small animals, written permission must be obtained before it is built. Any application must include plans of the proposed construction and detail the animal(s) to be kept.

Are there any exceptions?

Assistance dogs, such as guide dogs for the blind, hearing dogs for the deaf or dogs for the disabled, will always be permitted. The Equality Act 2010 prohibits anyone renting or selling a property from discriminating against a disabled person; this includes discriminating against a person with an assistance dog.

What pets aren’t allowed?

Dogs listed in the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 and any animals listed in the Schedule of the Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 will not be given permission to live in one of our homes unless they can provide the government certificate of exemption. This is to protect the health and safety of any customers and Group employees who may come into contact with them.

For up to date guidance, please visit the government's website.

If we're made aware of any customer that keeps any pets as described above, we'll treat this as a breach of tenancy and commence legal proceedings to obtain possession of the home.

Looking after your pet

You’re responsible for the health and welfare of your pets. Under the Animal Welfare Act 2006, this is called a duty of care. This requires proper day to day management and care of the pet.

If you have any questions about the care of your pets, you should contact a vet or a suitable accredited animal welfare organisation.

Routine healthcare must include regular control of parasites (fleas and worms), vaccinations and neutering where appropriate.

Should we become aware that a pet isn’t being given due duty of care, we’ll take steps to inform the relevant professional organisation, such as the RSPCA, and may consider prohibiting the keeping of the pet or any future pets in the home.