Back in October Romford MP Andrew Rosindell introduced a bill now known as ‘Jasmine’s Law’ which passed its first reading. The second reading is scheduled for the 29th January 2021.
The main aim is to end blanket No Pets clauses which many pet owners perceive to be unfair. The bill would not make pets in rental accommodation unconditional. Rather, pet owners would need to actively demonstrate that they are responsible with a vet’s certificate confirming the animal is well looked after, regularly vaccinated, flea & worm treated, microchipped etc. Landlords and Agents would also be able to consider if the pet in question is suitable for the property.
The bill is named after a Weimaraner from Surrey, Jasmine, who was made to leave home due to such restrictive tenancy agreement clauses. Andrew Rosindell says “This is an outdated situation where many landlords choose to have a blanket rule on this and the welfare implications are vast”.
The billed is backed by key animal charities such as RSPCA, Battersea Dogs & Cats Home, The Dogs Trust and the Cats Protection.
Commenting, Andrew Rosindell M.P. said:
“I’m delighted to have secured this slot to speak about an issue deeply important to me. As a dog owner for twenty five years, I understand as well as anyone the connection a person can have with their pet and for too long I have heard tragic stories of pet owners separated from their pets because of blanket bans that landlords implement.
It is a huge opportunity to increase awareness of this issue and to pressure the government to make changes that they promised earlier this year. In January the Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick rightly called on landlords to make it easier for responsible tenants to have well behaved pets in their homes, but as of yet this hasn’t been followed by any legislation.”
You can follow Rosindell’s campaign via his website and read his full speech here.
AB Lettings will bring you any developments in the New Year.
