Requesting Permission

We understand that your home is your sanctuary, so whether it’s adding a furry friend to your family, enhancing security measures, or adapting your living space, we’re here to assist you along the way.

CCTV

We understand that feeling safe at home is important. You don’t need permission from English Rural to install a video doorbell or CCTV at your home, as these aren’t classed as property adaptations. However, if you move out, any devices or fittings must be removed, otherwise you may be charged for removal.

If you choose to install a device, please make sure you:

• Follow data protection rules (GDPR 2018) – You are responsible for how the device is used and become the Data Controller.
• Put up clear signage – Let visitors know recording is taking place.
• Keep devices within your property boundary – Don’t attach them to communal areas.
• Respect privacy – Avoid filming neighbours, shared spaces, or public areas.

If a device is installed incorrectly, we may ask for it to be removed.

What if someone has concerns?

If a neighbour or member of the public is worried about how a device is being used or about misuse of recorded data, they should report it to the Police. If they’re not satisfied with the Police response, they can contact the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) for further advice.

Our role

English Rural has a duty to investigate reports from customers about nuisance, annoyance, or harassment. We’ll offer advice and consider tenancy enforcement if needed. However, claims of harassment or nuisance due to a camera or video doorbell must be supported by evidence of specific incidents. Simply being unhappy that a neighbour has a video doorbell is not considered anti-social behaviour or a breach of tenancy.

You can find the full list of ICO guidance by visiting the Information Commissioner’s Office website.

Requesting permission to have a pet in your home

We generally do not have any objections to you keeping pets within your home, so long as they do not cause a nuisance to your neighbours.

You do not need to request permission to keep small pets such as birds, fish or other small caged animals but you do need to ask us before keeping a dog or other large animal. Please complete the Pet Permission Form (pdf) and await permission before keeping an animal at your home. You will also need to ensure that you have read our Pet Policy which can be found here.

Unfortunately, we cannot grant permission for pets to be kept in upstairs flats.

What happens if complaints are made?

If complaints are received and it is deemed that your animal is causing a nuisance to your neighbours, you may be asked to find an alternative home for your pet.

Electric Vehicle Charging Points (EVCP)

English Rural Housing Association aims to promote the installation of electric vehicle charging points (EVCP) for tenants who have purchased rechargeable vehicles.

We recognise that using electric vehicles is one measure for reducing emissions locally and will support any applications for such installations, where possible. Please note that EVCPs are only permitted on properties with dedicated private driveways, garages or off-curtilage parking.

All requests for EVCP installations should be made in writing to English Rural by either the resident or a representative acting on behalf of the resident. Requests must be made by completing the EVCP application and the fee of £30.00 plus VAT (£36.00) is payable on receipt of the completed form. Completed forms should be submitted to repairs@englishrural.org.uk

All EVCP installations must be completed by qualified contractors and installation certificates including electrical certificates will need to be produced to English Rural on completion of the installation.

Works should not be undertaken until full permission has been granted by English Rural in writing.