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?
Yes, we’ll allow you to have a pet in your home. If you live in a flat, this must only be a small or medium-sized dog or one cat.
We don’t allow the breeding or sale of any animal(s) from our properties.
If your pet needs outside accommodation – other than a hutch or pen for small animals – written permission is needed from us before it can be built. Any application must include plans of the proposed construction and details of the animal(s) to be kept.
Dog and cat flaps in external doors aren’t allowed as this affects the integrity of the door.
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 allowed.
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 won’t be given permission to live in one of our homes, with no exceptions.
This is to protect the health and safety of any of our customers and colleagues who may come into contact with them.
If we’re made aware of any customer keeping pets as outlined above, this’ll be treated as a breach of tenancy.
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.
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.
I live in sheltered housing or a Care and Support scheme.
Can I have a pet?
All requests will be considered on their own merits.
To request permission, please speak to your scheme or service manager or call us on 0800 111 4013.