Question to the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities:

To ask His Majesty's Government, with reference to the proposed amendments to the Tenant Fees Act 2019 by the Renters (Reform) Bill to include pet insurance as a permitted payment by landlords, what support will be provided to pet-owning tenants (1) on low incomes, or (2) who receive benefits, to make those payments.

Officials in the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities have engaged with a range of stakeholders, including insurance providers, whilst developing the legislation introduced in the Renters (Reform) Bill.

Insurance policies vary in their terms, conditions and charges, and the Government would encourage landlords and tenants to agree on a policy covering pet damage that suits both their needs. It will ultimately be a personal choice for tenants whether they wish to keep a pet and therefore whether they are willing to pay for insurance as a part of their agreement with their landlord.