There’s no doubt we’re a nation of pet lovers. More than a third (36%) of UK households own a dog and 29% have a cat. But when it comes to finding rentals that welcome pets, the options are incredibly limited.
Over the past year, only 6.6% of room-offered ads on SpareRoom explicitly welcomed pets, while a striking 93.4% did not. But this is all set to change when the Renters' Rights Bill gives tenants stronger rights around pet ownership. Landlords will soon have to consider all pet requests on a case-by-case basis.
And, while landlords won’t be forced to accept every animal, blanket bans on pets in lets will no longer be an option. The Government will soon publish guidance for landlords and tenants, before the new rules come into effect, but here’s what we know so far:
- If a tenant wants to keep a pet at home, landlords will not be able to unreasonably withhold their consent.
- If a tenant feels you’ve made an unfair decision they can challenge it by taking their complaint to the Private Rented Sector Ombudsman or even to court.
- It will be the tenant’s responsibility to prevent or resolve any damage to the property caused by their pet.
- Landlords will be able to require that tenants have insurance to cover any pet-related damage.
Under the new rules, a tenant will have to formally submit details in writing to their landlord about the animal they want to keep, including species, breed and their vaccination status. Landlords will have to reply in writing within 28 days though extra time is granted if more information is needed or if consent from a superior landlord is required.
When can landlords refuse pets?
Guidance will follow on reasonable grounds for a landlord to refuse a tenant having a pet. At the moment, we know that if a landlord has a superior landlord or freeholder that prohibits any pets on the property, then that is reasonable grounds for refusal.
Other reasonable grounds might include:
- Health risks e.g. an existing tenant with a severe allergy
- Unsuitable property e.g. no access to outdoor space for dogs
Pet damage insurance
One of the main concerns for landlords is the risk of pet-related damage, like scratched floors or broken furniture. Landlords will be able to insist tenants with pets have insurance to cover any damage and will be able to request proof of this.
Landlords will be able to take out the insurance themselves, passing on reasonable costs to tenants. Of course, tenants also pay a deposit which can be used for damages. Landlords should not attempt to recover costs twice for the same damage.
What if my tenant gets a pet without my permission?
Your restriction would need to be reasonable and you would need records of your communications on the matter. If your grounds for denying permission were reasonable then this could count as a breach of their tenancy agreement and you could pursue the relevant formal channels.
Consider the benefits for you and your tenants
But there are several benefits to accepting pets, and it’s important not to overlook them. For one, ‘pets allowed’ listings attract significantly more interest, reducing time on the market, and your tenant might stay longer. No landlord likes an empty property. Pet owners know how hard it is to find pet-friendly rentals, so they’re more likely to stay put.
And being flexible can lead to more cooperative and appreciative tenants. A good relationship between landlord and tenant is better for everyone.
The Renters' Rights Bill marks big changes, and brings new responsibilities for landlords. By understanding the rules and putting processes in place, you can protect your property, stay compliant, and benefit from a wider pool of reliable tenants.