The NDP wants to eliminate ‘no-pet clauses’ on rental agreements.

Halifax-Chebucto MLA Gary Burrill says landlords have been introducing the new clauses to existing agreements, as a way to speed up evictions and raise the rent.

“Will the Minister exercise his responsibility and authority to stop this practice of pet evictions?” asked Burrill in the Legislature.

Service Nova Scotia Minister Colton LeBlanc says landlords must provide a minimum of 4 months notice for changes on a lease.

He says a tenant has the right to submit an application to the tenancy board to determine if a change is reasonable.

LeBlanc says tenants and landlords need to understand their rights and responsibilities, and there will be education sessions coming.

Burrill added that local animal shelters are raising concerns about filling up as people get evicted.

“Shelters are coming to dread the end of the month, because they get so many of these types of calls.”

The NDP introduced legislation to eliminate the no-pet clauses.