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Date Published: 15/09/2022

ARCHIVED - Creature comforts: rules for keeping pets in rental properties in Spain

ARCHIVED ARTICLE

The new Animal Protection Law in Spain has generated some confusion among pet owners

<span style='color:#780948'>ARCHIVED</span> - Creature comforts: rules for keeping pets in rental properties in Spain

Spain is well-known as being a nation of animal lovers, and the new protection legislation, initially signed off on back in October last year and amended in August, has gone further than ever to ensure that our furry friends are legal members of the family, seen as “living beings endowed with sensitivity.”

Since they are now considered part of the household, it would make sense that pets should be allowed to live in rental properties without restrictions, but a recent study by real estate specialists Fotocasa shows that only 5% of rentals accept pets.

Also of interest: Four popular animals prohibited as pets in Spain

So, what does the law actually say?

Well, according to the president of the Association of Valencian Lawyers in Animal Defence and the Environment, the new animal welfare legislation hasn’t changed the Spanish Urban Leasing Law (LAU) one iota, which means homeowners remain free to decide whether or not they want to accept pets in a rental apartment or house.

But here’s the rub: landlords can only refuse animals if this is expressly stated on the lease.

If the rental agreement does not clearly specify that pets are prohibited, the tenant can have them, as long as they don’t cause any bother to the neighbours and the owner looks after them properly.

On the other hand, anyone who keeps pets if it is prohibited in the lease is essentially breaking their rental contract, so best to read the fine print before Fido gets too comfortable on the sofa.

Now read: Spain successfully develops coronavirus vaccine for pets

Image: Pixabay

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