My tenant has got two dogs without permission — what should I do?
The flat is quite small with no garden, so I don't think it's suitable for dogs. What are my options with the present tenant, and will I be forced to allow pets when the Renters' Rights Bill comes in and I next look for new tenants?
Helen, Brighton
Your agent is right that while your tenant has clearly breached the tenancy agreement, the practical options for dealing with it are quite limited.
Technically, you could attempt to end the tenancy by serving a section 8 notice using ground 12 for breach of tenancy terms. But this is a discretionary ground, and a judge would be unlikely to grant possession just for failing to obtain permission for pets when there's no evidence of serious damage or nuisance.
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