How often have you considered adding “no pets” in your advertisement for an upcoming tenancy in a let property you own?
You are probably worried about the extra damage or wear and tear that might be caused if your tenants own a pet or pets. Or the extra cleaning required (think: fleas) when a pet owning tenant moves out. So, you insist that your tenants are not allowed to keep pets.
Nevertheless, you might also want to give some thought to the extent to which you may be excluding a large section of potential tenants by denying the keeping of pets – as well as the legal aspects.
Tenants with pets
In 2024, a study reported that around 60% of UK households have non-aquatic pets. The chances are high, therefore, that at least some of your potential tenants are going to be pet owners.
Renters often struggle to find pet-friendly properties, making it a valuable opportunity for landlords as pet-friendly properties attract more interest and potentially can be rented out quickly.
Under the new Renters’ Rights Bill (which is expected to pass Royal Assent and become law after Easter 2025), there are provisions aimed at making it harder for landlords to refuse pets without good reason.
When may it be acceptable for a landlord to decline a tenant’s request to keep a pet?
There are certain circumstances where it’s reasonable for a landlord to say no to pets, such as:
- the property is too compact to accommodate a large pet comfortably;
- another tenant in the building has a pet allergy, which could cause health concerns;
- for leasehold properties, a ‘no pets’ rule set by the freeholder may apply, prohibiting all residents – whether owners or renters – from having pets on the premises.
Finally, you might be worried that a pet kept by your tenant may create a nuisance for your neighbours and strain your otherwise cordial relationships with them as a result.
Once again, the specific terms of the tenancy agreement may once again help. The agreement is likely to require, for instance, that your tenant acts in a reasonable and responsible manner. If they keep a pet – a dog which barks all night long, for example – you (not to mention the neighbours) may be quite entitled to consider the failure to control the animal to be unreasonable behaviour.
Can a landlord refuse a tenant’s pet? Here’s what you need to know
When it comes to renting with pets, landlords must consider requests on an individual basis. There isn’t a blanket rule that says when they can or can’t say “no” – it really depends on the circumstances.
That said, if a landlord (such as a freeholder in a leasehold property) has a strict no-pets policy, a landlord can reasonably refuse. Once the Renters’ Rights Bill has become law, there will also be official guidance to help both landlords and tenants navigate these decisions fairly.
What if a landlord says no without good reason?
If a tenant believes their pet request has been unfairly rejected, they have options. They can escalate their complaint to the Private Rented Sector Ombudsman or even take legal action. A final decision will be made based on the evidence from both sides.
What happens if a pet causes damage?
To give landlords peace of mind, the government is amending the Tenant Fees Act 2019 to allow them to require tenants to have pet damage insurance. If the landlord takes out the insurance instead, they can recover the cost from the tenant.
Tenants also pay a tenancy deposit, which can be used for repairs – though landlords can’t claim twice for the same damage. In the rare event that insurance and the deposit don’t cover the full cost, landlords can take legal action to recover the remaining amount, following standard industry procedures.
Pets in lets
With more tenants owning pets, landlords who allow them can potentially attract a larger tenant pool and enjoy more stable rental income. However, concerns about property damage, neighbour complaints, and insurance limitations are understandable.
The Renters’ Rights Bill will make it harder for landlords to refuse pets without a valid reason. Landlords can still say “no” in certain cases, such as when the property is unsuitable, or a leasehold agreement prohibits pets.
By requiring pet damage insurance and setting clear tenancy agreements, landlords can protect their property while accommodating responsible pet owners. Staying informed about legal changes will help landlords and tenants navigate these new rules fairly.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. While we aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information, laws and regulations surrounding pet-friendly rentals may change. Landlords and tenants should seek professional legal guidance or refer to official government sources for specific advice on tenancy agreements and pet policies.
We do not accept liability for any decisions made based on the information provided in this article. Landlords are encouraged to review their tenancy agreements, insurance policies, and legal obligations before making decisions regarding pets in rental properties.
