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Following the introduction of the Renters’ Rights Act earlier this month, tenants now have the right to request permission for a pet. Landlords will generally only be able to refuse where there is reasonable justification.
As a result, it’s more likely you’ll have to put up with pets living in your rentals – and, understandably, you might have concerns about the increased risk of damage to your property.
But there are practical steps you can take that will not only help reduce the risk of damage, but protect your relationship with your tenants at the same time.
Here, Telegraph Money explains how landlords can prevent property damage from pets, what to do if problems occur, and which insurance policies might provide additional protection.
1. Assess pet requests carefully
While the Renters’ Rights Act gives private tenants the legal right to request a pet, landlords can still refuse if it is “reasonable to do so”, according to Scott Goldstein, of solicitors’ Payne Hicks Beach.
He said: “Reasons for refusing might be that the property is too small for the pet in question. A tenant asking to keep a pet must make a written request. The landlord should respond by finding out more about the pet, such as what breed it is, how big it is, and how much room it might need.”
However, as this law is new, it’s not yet known how any refusals and subsequent appeals will be interpreted by the courts.
Mr Goldstein added: “It’s not known whether, for example, it would be reasonable for a landlord to refuse to allow a tenant to keep a breed of dog which is well-known for causing damage.”
Once you’ve received a pet request, you must respond – in writing – within 28 days. If the property you own is leasehold, you may need to ask permission from the freeholder for a pet to be kept in the property.
2. Use clear documentation and inventories
Landlords should ensure they have clear written policies for handling pet requests and document the reasons for any refusal carefully to demonstrate compliance with the new rules, according to Georgina Beavis of Blacks Solicitors.
As part of these policies, you might need to introduce more stringent property checks in case any damage takes place.
She added: “To help minimise the risk of damage, landlords may wish to carry out more regular inspections, use detailed inventories and check-in reports, and ensure tenancy agreements clearly set out tenants’ responsibilities for pet-related damage and cleaning.”
