Renting a Home with Pets

Historically, renting a home with pets has been challenging due to the potential for damage or bad odours caused by animals.

As a result, many landlords include ‘no pet’ clauses in their tenancy agreements, allowing them to prevent tenants with pets from renting their properties.

However, with the introduction of the Renters Reform Bill, tenants are now given the right to request to keep a pet, and landlords cannot ‘unreasonably’ refuse such requests.

What the Renters Reform Bill Does

Introduced on 17th May 2023, the Renters Reform Bill aims to provide safer, higher-quality homes under fairer tenancies.

By increasing the number of pet-friendly homes, there will be more opportunities for tenants across the UK to find accommodation that allows pets.

The bill, which was introduced to Parliament, outlines several benefits:

• No Widespread Ban on Pets: Landlords will not be allowed to impose blanket bans on tenants who live with pets.
• Insurance Responsibility: Tenants must agree in writing to either pay reasonable costs that cover the landlord’s insurance or obtain insurance for their pets.
• Right to Challenge: Tenants will have the ability to challenge a landlord’s decision if a request to keep a pet is unreasonably refused.

Although this is not yet law, it is something to look forward to in the near future.

Pet-Friendly Property Tips

Landlords often seek tenants they can trust to maintain the property. Here are some ways to build that trust when renting with pets:

• Be Honest: When looking for a place to rent with a pet, it’s best to be upfront about your intentions. This will help establish trust with your landlord.
• Have Pet Insurance: Ensure you have third-party liability insurance for your pets, as this can cover any damage caused by your pet, easing your landlord’s concerns.
• Be Responsible: It’s important to take responsibility for your pet, whether for any damage caused or simply by looking after the property diligently.

If you have any landlord or tenant queries, feel free to email Will Oakes or call 012o6 766333.

Our blogs and articles are correct at the time of writing.

These have been created for marketing purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice.