The RSPCA estimates, that 44% of households in the UK already have one or more pets. A figure that’s likely to have risen during the pandemic as more people work from home and find time for looking after pets and walking their dogs.
Across the country, landlords receive a huge amount of interest when it comes to pets being allowed in a property. Opening the door to pet owners offers many potential benefits but there are some important things to consider.
The pros of advertising pet-friendly rentals
Previous studies have shown that many tenants in the private rented sector are willing to pay more for pet-friendly properties. For landlords willing to relax their no pets policies, additional income could be an attractive boost.
By accepting renters with pets, landlords can increase demand for their properties and also attract long-term tenants, which can minimise void periods. Making tenants feel more at home in their rental properties can encourage them to take better care of the place.
Across the UK, there are even a number of build-to-rent developments that have been pioneering the push for pet-friendly rentals. The sector will likely boom over the coming years as more UK households are bringing pets in their homes.
How do you make the best decision for you and your property?
Many landlords have understandable concerns about noise, fleas, damage and allergies and with deposits now capped, this means that landlords can no longer take a larger deposit to potentially cover the costs of any damages. Meaning, that this may potentially end up in a dispute through a deposit dispute scheme if problems do occur.
However, those that do take on tenants with pets will usually find that it’s much easier to fill their properties, and once the tenant moves in, usually stays for a much longer duration of time. It’s also important to note that tenants will be willing to pay more rent to secure a pet-friendly property, knowing that they can move in with a pet.
5 Top Tips
- Take a reference from their previous landlord and if any problems occurred with the pet/pets.
- Take into consideration the pet and the property suitability. Is the property big enough? Is the space outside? Dogs require a reasonably good amount of space indoors and outdoors for it to be considered a good and safe place as highlighted by dog welfare organisations.
- Have discussions with your tenant in detail about what requirements they need to maintain the property to a good standard and provide help where needed.
- Edit your tenancy agreement.
- Check whether your own lease or insurance allows for pets.
