The Rise of Pet-Friendly Renting in the UK

For decades, landlords could easily refuse tenants with pets — but that’s changing fast.
With over 36 million pets in the UK and 60% of households including an animal (PFMA), the demand for pet-friendly properties has never been greater.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, pet ownership surged by 40%, yet two-thirds of pet owners struggled to find rental housing. The Renters’ Rights Bill is designed to fix that imbalance.

What the Renters’ Rights Bill Changes

🚫 Blanket Bans End | ✅ Fair Requests Begin
- Landlords can no longer refuse pets without a reasonable justification.
- Tenants now have a legal right to request a pet.
- Landlords must reply in writing within 28 days.

🛡️ Insurance – Optional, But Advisable
The Bill’s original pet insurance clause was removed, but protection is still wise.
Pet damage insurance safeguards both landlords and tenants — but check terms, as some policies require property inspections every three months.

🏠 Property Suitability Still Matters
When reviewing a request, consider:
- Is the property suitable for the animal’s size or breed?
- Does the head lease or building management agreement permit pets?
- Can the tenant show vet records or references?
- Is the tenant willing to take out voluntary pet insurance?
- What’s the current property condition and care level shown by the tenant?

📊 Why Pet-Friendly Lettings Make Sense
- Tenants with pets stay 8% longer on average, reducing voids and increasing stability.
- Pet-friendly homes are in higher demand, often allowing landlords to charge slightly higher rents.
- Allowing pets builds loyalty and encourages longer-term relationships.
- In a competitive market with limited stock, flexibility attracts the best tenants.

💡 Insurance Still Matters
For tenants: protects deposits and avoids disputes.
For landlords: covers common issues like scratching, chewing, or fouling.

🐕 Busting Common Myths About Pets in Rentals

❌ “Pets always cause damage.”
✅ 73% of landlords report no additional wear and tear.

❌ “Landlords lose control.”
✅ You can still refuse — but refusals must be reasonable and documented.

❌ “Insurance only protects landlords.”
✅ It protects both sides, allowing mid-tenancy repairs and smoother resolutions.

❌ “Pets cause neighbour complaints.”
✅ 84% of landlords report no nuisance issues from tenants’ pets.

🔧 Practical Steps for Landlords
- Update tenancy clauses to remove blanket bans.
- Create a pet assessment checklist (vet records, references, insurance).
- Use detailed inventories and schedule regular mid-term inspections.
- Encourage pet insurance or proof of coverage.

🔮 Looking Ahead
The end of blanket bans marks a major cultural shift in UK lettings. Landlords who adapt early will:
- Stay compliant with new legislation.
- Attract responsible, long-term tenants.
- Build a strong reputation for fairness and flexibility.

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