Can I say 'No' to pets?
It’s estimated that 51% of adults in the UK own a pet, and many will be looking for a place to rent. So, as a landlord can you say ‘No’ to pets ?
Pets and Renting: What Landlords Need to Know 🐾🏠
Most landlords (about 93%) don’t advertise their properties as pet-friendly, mainly due to concerns about damage. Pets can chew skirting boards, scratch doors, stain carpets, damage gardens, and cause odors or fleas 🐶🐱. So, can you say no to pets?
Yes, you can refuse a tenant’s request for a pet—some leases even forbid them 🚫🐕. But tenants do have the right to ask, and pets are often considered part of the family ❤️.
The government plans to introduce rules that landlords cannot unreasonably refuse permission for pets. They recognize pets support mental and physical well-being 🧠💪. There’s also a proposal to allow landlords to require pet insurance to cover damage (this is not law yet) 📋.
Key Points for Landlords Allowing Pets
Get permission first: Tenants must ask before moving a pet in—allowing a pet without approval breaches the lease ✔️
Meet the pet: Meet the animal to judge its behavior 👋🐕
Talk openly: Discuss pet care honestly. Don’t just take promises that the pet will be quiet or well-behaved 💬
Ask care questions: Are tenants responsible? How is the pet cared for when they’re away? Do they have cleaning tools or pet accessories to protect your property? 🧹🦴
Put it in writing: Confirm what pet is allowed and your expectations on cleanliness and property care. This protects you if you need to claim against the deposit later 📑
Inspect regularly: Do an inspection within the first month, then every six months. Report any issues in writing 🕵️♂️
Pets are often loved family members, so if you choose to allow them, these steps can help protect your property 🏡❤️
If you have questions, feel free to contact our office—we’re here to help 📞✉️
We are here and ready to help in any way we can. 🧑💼
☎️ Call: 01474 321957
📧 Email: Gemmascott@mandmprop.co.uk