A landlord's guide to pet ownership in the UK
For lots of us, our pets are an essential part of the family, so it's natural that many renters will look for properties where pets are permitted. That might be for an existing animal, or one they wish to bring into the fold when the time is right.
Many landlords, however, are nervous about allowing pets in their properties. On the one hand, we know that being pet friendly can make a property more appealing to prospective tenants, but there can be an element of caution about potential damage.
In this article we aim to give landlords a helpful guide to pet ownership - the benefits, areas of caution, and rights of renters, so you can make an informed decision for you and your property.
The legal position
Historically, private landlords in the UK have been able to dictate whether or not they allow pets in rented properties, which has arguably made it difficult for those with animals to find suitable housing, or risk having to surrender their pets.
While The Consumer Rights Act 2015 prohibited “unfair terms” in a contract, in 2021 there was a shift in the law which prevented landlords from having 'blanket bans' on pets in their properties. This was when the Model Tenancy Agreement (MTA) was revised "to encourage landlords to offer greater flexibility in their approach to pet ownership, and enable responsible pet owning tenants to find private landlords who will accept them".
However, the forthcoming Renter's Rights Bill, expected to come into force at the end of 2025, is set to further support the rights of pet owners. It says that landlords cannot "unreasonably withhold consent when a tenant requests to have a pet in their home". However, it does also support landlords in asking tenants to have insurance covering pet damage.
Can landlords say no to pets?
Yes, landlords can say no to pets, but there are caveats. Under the new Renter's Rights Bill, it will not be suitable to unilaterally ban pets. Instead, tenants will have the right to ask if they can keep a pet at the property (issued in writing), and landlords must not refuse unreasonably. However, if you accept pets, you can require tenants to have pet insurance in case of any potential damage.
Prior to the Renter's Rights Bill, as already stated, grounds had been laid for landlords to consider reasonable requests for pets. Guidance regarding the MTA said:
"A Tenant must seek the prior written consent of the Landlord should they wish to keep pets or other animals at the Property. A Landlord must not unreasonably withhold or delay a written request from a Tenant without considering the request on its own merits. The Landlord should accept such a request where they are satisfied the Tenant is a responsible pet owner and the pet is of a kind that is suitable in relation to the nature of the premises at which it will be kept. Consent is deemed to be granted unless the written request is turned down by a Landlord with good reason in writing within 28 days of receiving the request."
That said, there are grounds for reasonable refusal. If you deem this to be the case, you might wish to lay out the reasons pet ownership is not recommended in your tenancy agreement, so that the prospective tenant is fully aware from the outset.
Reasonable reasons for refusal might include restrictions in a leasehold agreement regarding animals, the size of the property, or if someone else in the property has severe allergies. These reasons must be provided in writing. Importantly, landlords should be aware that they can't request a higher rent or deposit for allowing pets, if it would be in breach of the deposit cap requirements in the Tenant Fees Act 2019.
The benefits of pet-friendly rental properties
Of course, there are lots of benefits to allowing pets in your rental property. As a nation of animal lovers, many of us know the joy they bring to a happy home, supporting tenants to enjoy a positive quality of life, and laying the groundwork for a long-term relationship between landlord and tenant.
For landlords looking to market a new rental property, making it clear that your property is pet-friendly widens the pool of prospective tenants, gives the property a competitive advantage, and makes longer tenancy durations more likely. When tenants feel trusted and supported in their lifestyle, they're also more likely to look after the property well.
Considerations when allowing pets
Of course, there are things to consider when allowing pets. The vast majority of pets are well behaved, and most pet owners are responsible and caring. However, animals add another dimension to the letting process, and you may wish to consider them before putting your property on the letting market so you can plan accordingly.
You may wish to decorate the property with hard floors to avoid damage to carpets or pet odours.
Be mindful that some animals might cause noise complaints.
If you were to let to another tenant in the future, be mindful of any allergies they may have, and the need for suitable cleaning or redecoration between tenants.
How to safely allow pets in your property
Central to allowing pets at your property safely is ensuring that everyone understands the expectations and considerations of one another. That not only includes tenants and landlords, but any neighbours, or other people who might be affected. Responsible pet owners will be aware that they need to make sure pets are properly looked after, that any damage caused by animals is repaired, and that pets don't pose an unreasonable nuisance to those living nearby.
There are things you can do to ensure your property safely allows pets. For example:
In the initial instance, you can request that tenants take our insurance to cover any damage caused by a resident animal.
When preparing your property to let, you might also want to consider how you decorate it. For example, you might include pet-friendly flooring such as non-slip tiles and hard surfaces like vinyl, and if you have outdoor spaces, make sure they are securely fenced off to prevent pets from escaping.
You might request a reference from a previous landlord who has experience of the tenant and their pet.
If you're letting your property furnished, consider scratch- and stain-resistant fabrics and durable finishes.
You might choose to limit the number, type, and size of animals allowed.
Make sure you conduct regular inspections of your property so any issues can be resolved quickly, and that these are clearly laid out in the tenancy agreement. You should also make sure tenants are given ample written warning to maintain positive relationships.
Foster a good relationship with your tenant so that you can maintain open and honest communications about any damage or issues before it becomes unduly costly or problematic.
Chestertons is the premier London lettings and estate agency with more than 200 years’ experience and a team of experts offering a range of services from a full-time compliance department to property management, for both long- and short-term lets. We are able to offer our landlords and tenants support and advice to ensure you get maximum benefit from your rental property, ensuring it’s well cared for at the same time. If you would like to find out more about working with Chestertons contact your local Chestertons letting agent at any time.