Amend the Residential Tenancy Act to Reduce No Pet Clauses

Whereas companion animals have significant quality of life and health benefits for pet owners, and there are also significant benefits to landlords of pet-friendly housing, such as higher rents and longer-term and more reliable tenants; And whereas no pet clauses in lease agreements greatly reduce the availability and adequacy of rental suites for renters who own pets, further exacerbating extremely challenging rental market conditions for renters: Therefore be it resolved that UBCM call on the provincial government to amend the Residential Tenancy Act to reduce no pet clauses in lease agreements in British Columbia as long as responsible ownership and animal welfare issues are also considered.