How the Rules for Renting with Pets Could Change for Landlords

Interest in pet-friendly rentals has surged since the pandemic, leading to potential changes in rental regulations for landlords. The Renters Reform Bill, which has been progressing through Parliament since May last year, proposes significant changes to the private rented sector. These changes include modifications to eviction processes, tenancy agreement terms, and enhanced rights for tenants with pets.

Rising Demand for Pet-Friendly Rentals

Data shows a 120% increase in tenants seeking pet-friendly rental homes since the pandemic. Despite this, a 2021 government analysis revealed that only 7% of private landlords advertise their properties as pet-friendly. While some landlords may accept pets upon request, the Renters Reform Bill, if passed in its current form, is expected to substantially increase the availability of pet-friendly rental homes.

Current Regulations on Renting with Pets

Currently, landlords in England are advised against blanket bans on pets when advertising properties, though they can include “no pets” in their listings. Some tenancy agreements explicitly prohibit pets, but tenants can still request to have a pet. Landlords are not obligated to agree to such requests.

Common reasons for refusal include potential property damage and unsuitability of the property, such as in flats. Although higher tenancy deposits for pet owners are not allowed due to a cap at five weeks’ rent, landlords can charge extra rent to cover potential damage or dirt from pets. Tenants must return the property in the same condition as at the start of the tenancy, but they are not required to carry out professional cleaning or de-flea treatments.

Proposed Changes Under the Renters Reform Bill

The Renters Reform Bill proposes new rules that could significantly impact renting with pets. Once enacted, tenants will be able to request in writing to have a pet in their rental property. Landlords must respond within 28 days, providing either consent or reasonable grounds for refusal, which have yet to be clearly defined. Once consent is given, it cannot be withdrawn.

The Bill also promises the establishment of a new Property Ombudsman to handle disputes between landlords and tenants. If a tenant believes a refusal is unreasonable, they can appeal to the ombudsman.

To address concerns about pet-related damage, the Bill will allow landlords to request insurance specifically covering such damage, which tenants will be required to pay for.

Balancing Interests of Tenants and Landlords

Kim Lidbury, group director of property management at Leaders Romans Group, commented on the upcoming changes: “The introduction of pet-friendly policies in rental agreements is a nuanced issue that requires careful consideration to balance the interests of tenants with those of landlords.

“Not all property types may be suitable for pets, for instance, flats within blocks and properties without gardens. The recent reading of the Bill included a mandate that tenants either maintain insurance to cover potential pet damage or compensate the landlord for the reasonable cost of obtaining such insurance.

“This is a positive step forward which does seem to address landlords’ concerns while also enhancing the lives of tenants and their pets. However, more detail is still required to ensure that pets can only be requested in an appropriate property.”

As the Renters Reform Bill progresses, it is crucial for UK landlords to stay informed about potential changes to pet policies and prepare for their implementation.