"The Renters' Rights Bill Part 6" - Pets in Rentals

While many landlords have traditionally had a ‘no pets’ policy, the new law aims to make it easier for renters to have animals in their homes.

But what does this mean for landlords and tenants? Can landlords still refuse pets? How can a landlord protect their property from potential damage? Let’s break it down.

What’s Changing?

❗️ Landlords Can No Longer Issue a Blanket ‘No Pets’ Policy

• Tenants will now have the legal right to request permission to have a pet, and landlords cannot refuse unreasonably.
• This applies to all rental properties, regardless of whether a previous tenancy agreement banned pets.

❗️ Landlords Must Provide a Valid Reason for Refusing Pets

• If a landlord wants to deny a tenant’s request, they must provide a reasonable, justifiable reason.
• Examples of acceptable reasons might include:
  • The property is unsuitable for pets (e.g., small apartments, no outdoor space).
  • The freeholder or lease agreement prohibits pets.
  • The tenant cannot care for the pet responsibly or has a history of property damage.

❗️ Pet-Friendly Policies Should Be Fair & Consistent

• Landlords cannot discriminate without just cause and must consider each request on a case-by-case basis.
• They may set reasonable conditions for allowing pets, such as requiring tenants to ensure the pet is well-trained and doesn’t cause nuisance.

❗️ Tenants Can Be Required to Have Pet Insurance

• To protect against potential property damage, landlords can request that tenants obtain pet insurance before allowing pets in the home.
• This provides financial protection in case of damage to carpets, furniture, or fixtures.

Implications for Landlords

⚠️ More Risk of Property Damage

• Pets can cause scratches, odours, and wear and tear that might exceed normal tenant use.
• Without proper insurance, landlords may have to cover repair costs themselves.

⚠️ Potential for Noise or Complaints from Neighbours

• Barking dogs or disruptive pets could cause issues with other tenants or neighbours.
• Landlords may need to set clear rules on pet behaviour and responsibilities.

⚠️ Limited Ability to Refuse Pets in Some Cases

• While landlords can still reject pets, they must have a legally valid reason—which could be challenged by tenants.
• Leasehold properties where the freeholder bans pets may be one of the few scenarios where refusal is straightforward.

⚠️ Impact on Tenant Demand & Rental Values

• Some landlords worry that allowing pets will make properties harder to maintain, while others see pet-friendly rentals as an opportunity.
• With more renters owning pets, landlords who allow them could attract a wider pool of tenants and reduce void periods.

How Landlords Can Adapt & Protect Their Properties

✅ 1. Set Clear Pet Policies in the Tenancy Agreement

• Outline expectations for tenants with pets, including:
  • Pet size and breed restrictions (if applicable).
  • Noise and behaviour guidelines to prevent disturbances.

✅ 2. Require Tenants to Have Pet Insurance

• Request that tenants obtain insurance to cover pet-related damage, ensuring financial protection for landlords.

✅ 3. Conduct Regular Property Inspections

• Schedule periodic inspections to assess any pet-related damage early.
• Ensure tenants are maintaining the property in a clean and responsible manner.

✅ 4. Consider a Higher Rent or Pet Premium

• While landlords cannot charge a separate ‘pet deposit’, they can set a slightly higher monthly rent to account for additional wear and tear.
• Ensure any adjustments remain fair and competitive within the local rental market.

✅ 5. Use a Managed Service to Handle Pet Requests & Compliance

• A professional property management service can:
  • Assess and process pet requests in line with legal guidelines.
  • Ensure tenancy agreements include proper pet clauses.
  • Handle disputes if tenants challenge pet refusals.
  • Manage inspections and maintenance to keep the property in good condition.

The Bottom Line: A Balanced Approach is Key

The Renters’ Rights Bill shifts the balance towards allowing pets, but landlords still have options to protect their properties. With the right approach, landlords can:

✔️ Minimise risk while complying with the law.

✔️ Attract responsible, long-term tenants.

✔️ Avoid legal disputes over unfair pet refusals.

Need help managing pet requests and staying compliant? Our expert team can ensure your property remains protected, profitable, and legally sound.