This is a subject most weeks in our office regards to pets in rental properties.
Its not all landlords preference to accept pets, but certainly worth a thought as so many tenants have pets and having a dog myself know they a very much part of our family.
Of course, I like to add the Pros, Cons and Rules.
1. Pros of Allowing Dogs in Rental Properties:
- Increased Demand from Pet Owners: Many tenants are pet owners, and being a pet-friendly landlord can attract a wider pool of potential tenants, especially as people are more likely to have pets now.
- Longer Tenancy: Tenants with pets may stay longer if they find a rental that allows their dogs, reducing turnover and vacancy periods for landlords.
- Positive Tenant Loyalty: Tenants with dogs often feel a stronger bond to their rental property and are more likely to be responsible and care for it.
2. Cons of Allowing Dogs in Rental Properties:
- Potential Property Damage: Dogs can cause wear and tear on the property, especially if they are not properly trained or if the space is not pet-proofed (e.g., chewing on furniture, scratching doors).
- Noise and Disturbance: Dogs can create noise, particularly in apartments or units with thin walls, which may lead to complaints from neighbours. Barking can be a problem, especially when tenants are out.
- Allergies and Other Tenants: Future tenants may have allergies to pets, which could make it harder to rent out the property to them after a dog has lived there.
- Increased Liability: Pet-related incidents, like a dog biting someone, can lead to legal and insurance concerns for the landlord.
3. Rules and Regulations for Allowing Dogs:
If you’re a landlord considering allowing dogs in your rental property, here are some guidelines to help mitigate the risks:
- Pet insurance for Rental Properties: Pet Damage insurance can normally be added to your existing landlord insurance policy, or purchased with a new policy.
- Breed and Size Restrictions: Some landlords impose breed or size restrictions to prevent large or aggressive dog breeds. It's essential to have clear guidelines on what pets are acceptable.
- Written Pet Agreement: Include a pet addendum in the lease that clearly states the rules regarding pets. This can cover things like the number of pets allowed, cleanliness expectations, noise limits, and more.
- Pet References: Asking for references from previous landlords or pet behaviour certifications can help determine whether the pet is likely to cause issues in the rental property.
- Health and Safety Inspections: Conduct regular inspections to ensure that the property is being well-maintained and that pets are not causing damage.
4. How to Make a Property Dog-Friendly:
- Create Pet-Friendly Spaces: Designate pet-friendly areas in the property, such as a small outdoor yard or pet-friendly flooring (e.g., tile or laminate) that’s resistant to damage from claws or accidents.
- Secure Fencing: If you allow dogs in the garden, ensure that fencing is secure and high enough to keep pets from escaping.
5. Legal Considerations:
- Service Animals: Under the Fair Housing Act, landlords must make reasonable accommodations for tenants with disabilities who require service animals. This means that landlords cannot deny service animals, even if they have a no-pet policy.
- Local Regulations: Some local ordinances and housing regulations may restrict pet policies, so it’s essential to know your area’s laws regarding pets in rental properties.
- Renters Reform Bill 2025 - Coming soon. Date not confirmed as yet but part of the bill aims to give tenants the right to request a pet in their rented home. Landlords will need to consider these requests and may not be able to refuse without a good reason.
If you are a landlord who is happy to rent your property to a family with a pet. Please give Brooke our Senior Lettings Consultant a call on 01708504455 or email batkinson@gbpestates.co.uk