This article provides general guidance for any type of animal though the relevance will vary on a case by case basis.
In 2018 45% of the U.K. population owned a pet and pet owners can make great long-term tenants but before making a decision on whether to allow your tenant keep a pet or not, consideration should be given to the following:
- Are there any restrictions in any head lease or deeds that prohibit ‘living creatures’ being kept at the property. Such restrictions are common for certain types of animal e.g. chickens
- Is the property suitable for the pet? Does the property have enough space – inside and outside? Is the property in a suitable location e.g. a property on a traffic laden road or on the top floor of a block would not be suitable for a cat that likes to roam. Is the outside space enclosed enough to prevent the pet from straying outside the boundary?
- Related to the suitability of the property, has the welfare of the pet been considered carefully? How much time will the pet spend alone? Who will care for the pet when the tenant is away from home? Who will care for the pet in an Emergency?
- What impact will the pet have on the neighbours enjoyment of their property? A cockerel crowing or a dog barking in the garden is likely to irritate neighbours.
- What will be done to mitigate the risk of damage or injury caused by the pet – e.g. charging a higher rent
Tenant Fees Act 2019
With the enactment of the Tenant Fees Act 2019 there are some other considerations for landlords:
- Tenancy Deposits are capped at 5 weeks rent – landlords can no longer require a tenant pays a Tenancy Deposit higher than 5 weeks rent.
- A landlord must not require the tenant enters into a contract for the provision of a service with a third party in connection with a tenancy – landlords can no longer require a tenant to enter into a contract with a vet, pest controller or cleaner.
- A landlord must not require the tenant enters into a contract for insurance with a third party in connection with a tenancy – landlords can no longer require a tenant to have tenant liability insurance or third party liability insurance for their pet.
Renters’ Rights Bill
With the forthcoming (2025) enactment of the Renters’ Rights Bill, consideration needs to given to what the new law is likely to include regarding pets: Guide to the Renters’ Rights Bill – Renting with pets
Further Reading
Guide to the Renters’ Rights Bill – Renting with pets
What are the requirements if I have a pet? {Jungle Property Knowledgebase article}
The unintended consequences of the Tenant Fees Act on lets with pets {Jungle Property Blog article}
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