Three steps to pet-proof your property ahead of new pet laws
Landlords across the UK are set for one of the biggest shifts in rental regulation in years as the Renters’ Rights Bill edges closer to becoming law.
While the bill aims to give tenants a greater right to keep a pet, a new analysis highlights the stark reality of demand versus supply: with a dog population of up to 13 million and fewer than 1 in 10 homes currently allowing pets, the demand for pet-friendly housing is at a critical high. This pressure is also creating financial risk, with pet-related deposit claims jumping 140% from 2023 to 2024.
Chris Maxted, director of retractable dog gate supplier Dog-G8, shares how landlords can manage this by focusing on proactive management and prevention.
Pets and tenancy stability
“The fear of pet damage is a common misconception. The average pet-related damage claim is just £300 per tenancy, less than half the £775 in non-pet-related damage caused by non-pet-owning tenants. Landlords who embrace this risk-management mindset stand to benefit from longer, more stable tenancies.
“Pet-owning tenants also tend to stay in properties for an average of three years, compared to only 31% of non-pet owners, which helps landlords reduce costly void periods and administrative burdens.”
Three key things landlords should focus on
Focus on prevention
“Insurance is an important safety net, but the best approach is to prevent problems before they happen. Simple measures like containment barriers at entry points can stop pets from escaping or damaging doors and flooring, which are some of the most common causes of disputes.”
Tenant responsibilities
“Screening should go beyond simply asking whether a tenant has a pet. The key question is what steps they’ve taken to care for it responsibly. Tenants who can provide references, a pet CV, or demonstrate practical safety measures show they take both their pet and the property seriously, making them more reliable tenants.”
Why proactive landlords stand to benefit
“Rather than banning pets outright, landlords benefit from being clear about expectations. A detailed pet clause that sets out responsibilities, acceptable pet types, and rules for containment helps prevent problems from arising.
“This approach encourages trust and cooperation between landlord and tenant, while keeping the property well-maintained.”
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