As a landlord in the UK, you may often face requests from tenants wanting to keep pets in your rental property. With an estimated 44% of UK households owning at least one pet (a figure likely to have increased during the pandemic), it’s a common query. However, many landlords have valid concerns about potential noise, damage, fleas, and allergies. So, what are your rights when it comes to accepting or refusing pets? Let’s explore.

Benefits of Allowing Pets

There are several compelling reasons to position yourself as a pet-friendly landlord:

• Pet ownership is known to benefit the mental and physical health of tenants, potentially leading to better property upkeep and landlord-tenant relationships
• Tenants with pets may stay longer due to the difficulty of finding pet-friendly rentals, reducing voids and marketing costs
• Landlords can justifiably charge slightly higher rent to cover any additional wear and tear

Embedded image: A content tenant with their well-behaved dog in a rental property

Potential Drawbacks

While relatively rare, poorly behaved pets can cause issues such as:

• Damage to the property
• Disruptive noise for neighbors
• Flea infestations or allergy concerns for future tenants

Thorough suitability checks can help mitigate these risks.

Assessing Pet Suitability

Before approving or denying a pet request, consider factors like:

Type and Breed

Small pets like goldfish are unlikely to cause damage, making refusal unreasonable. For dogs, check if the breed is listed under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991. If so, ensure it’s on the exemptions register before granting permission.

Assistance Animals

Animals assisting with a tenant’s disability are not legally considered pets. Refusing them could be discriminatory under the Equality Act.

Pet Character and Behavior

For pre-existing pets, request references from previous landlords about the animal’s behavior and any property damage. You can also ask to meet the pet to observe its health, temperament, and noise level.

Vaccinations, Flea Treatments, and Insurance

Evidence of up-to-date vaccinations and regular flea treatments indicates a well-cared-for pet. Pet insurance can provide added reassurance.

Key Takeaway:

• Assess pet suitability based on factors like type, breed, behavior, and health
• Assistance animals must be permitted if required for a tenant’s disability
• References, meetings, and documentation can help inform pet approval decisions

Protecting Your Interests

Before agreeing to a pet, also consider:

Insurance Coverage

Check if your landlord insurance covers pet damage. If not, slightly higher rent could offset potential repair costs. You may wish to recommend tenant insurance providers that do cover pet damage.

Property Lease Restrictions

If you have a leasehold property, especially in a block of flats, check if the superior lease prohibits pets. This would provide reasonable grounds for refusal.

Property Suitability

Evaluate if the property is appropriate for the pet in question. A large dog may not be suitable for a small flat or room-only let, for example.

Documenting Pet Permissions

If you decide to allow a pet, update the tenancy agreement to include clauses covering:

• Details of the approved pet(s) and an emergency caretaker
• Requirements for vaccinations, flea/worm treatments, and any damage
• The process for requesting additional pets
• Expectations for pet behavior and tenant responsibilities

Organizations like Lets with Pets offer sample pet clauses and policies that can be adapted for your agreement.

Thorough check-in and check-out inventories, along with regular property inspections, are crucial for identifying and addressing any pet-related damage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I charge a higher rent for tenants with pets?

Yes, slightly higher rent to cover potential additional wear and tear is reasonable. However, you can no longer take a separate pet deposit.

What if a tenant gets a pet without permission?

Issue a warning and request rehoming of the unauthorized pet. If the tenant refuses, this breach of the tenancy agreement could be grounds for eviction.

How should I handle complaints about a tenant’s pet?

Investigate the complaint’s validity. If the pet is a genuine nuisance, work with the tenant to find a solution, such as training or access restrictions. Eviction is a last resort.

Can I refuse a tenant’s request for an exotic pet?

Exotic pets like reptiles and birds may pose unique challenges and risks. You can reasonably refuse if you feel the pet or property is unsuitable, or you’re uncomfortable with the potential liability.

In summary, permitting pets in your rental is a personal decision that requires careful consideration of the benefits, risks, and responsibilities involved. By implementing a fair pet policy, screening animals for suitability, and maintaining open communication with tenants, you can successfully navigate the challenges and rewards of being a pet-friendly landlord.