🐕 Guide to renting with pets 🐈

In our previous blog, we looked at what tenants looks for in properties and pets was one of the key factors. Since the beginning of the pandemic in 2020, Rightmove has stated the demand for a pet friendly rental property has increased 120%, however according to Chestertons in March 2022 only 12% of properties are marketed as being pet friendly.

In January 2021, the Government updated the model tenancy agreement to allow tenants to have a pet in a property, this precludes the landlord from issuing a blanket ban and cannot object unless they have good reasons to do so. This has led to an assumption from tenants they are able to get a pet, however there is no obligation on a landlord to use the model tenancy agreement.

There are a number of factors for a landlord to consider before they allow pets in a property and ultimately there is a risk involved with allowing certain pets, we’d love to hear from you if you’ve ever had an issue with a goldfish. If they decide not to allow a pet, what would be considered a good reason?

🚫 Head lease does not allow for pets

🚫 Property is too small

🚫 Other tenants have allergies to animals

🚫 Poorly behaved pets, other than a pet reference or meeting the proposed pet, this will be a tricky one to prove

Previous issues with damage and deposit disputes does not constitute a good reason for a landlord to object.

So what can the landlord do to protect themselves?

0️⃣ They are unable to take more monetary deposit, however the no deposit schemes are still able to guarantee a higher deposit.

📑 Add clauses to the tenancy agreement to clearly outline the expectations at the end of the tenancy.

💷 Charge additional rent. It is permitted to charge extra rent to tenants with a view to this being put towards the additional wear and tear.

🧹 A thorough clean at the beginning of the tenancy, with good invoice or receipts to prove the extent of the clean, any flea treatment or deodorisation in preparation for the pet.

📝 A detailed Inventory report which will support the landlord’s claims should any damage occur.