Letting agents urged to take case-by-case approach to pets

An industry body has issued guidance to letting agents on renting with pets and recommends tenants provide a pet CV.

Propertymark has published guidance as the Renters’ Rights Act gives private renters the right to request a pet, with landlords and letting agents unable to refuse requests unreasonably.

The guidance comes as the government has said councils should allow pets in temporary accommodation where it is suitable to do so.

Tenants provide a pet CV

Propertymark points out that landlords reported average pet-related damage of £300 per tenancy. This compares with average non-pet-related damage of £775 reported by landlords who did not rent to pet owners.

Propertymark writes on its website: “Letting agents can help landlords consider the specific animal and home, rather than applying a blanket approach.

“We recommend checking whether the property has enough appropriate space, whether a lease or headlease limits pets, and whether there are any arrangements to consider in a house in multiple occupation. It is also important to understand the protections that apply to assistance animals.

“Tenants can provide useful reassurance through a pet CV. This may include the animal’s age, breed, behaviour, training and vaccinations, as well as references from a previous landlord or veterinary practitioner. A meeting between the landlord, tenant and pet can provide a practical opportunity to discuss care arrangements and expectations.”

Regular inspections

The industry body also recommends regular inspections once a pet has been agreed.

Propertymark says: “Clear written terms help everyone understand their responsibilities. These can cover permission for additional or visiting pets, avoiding nuisance to neighbours and the tenant’s responsibility for any damage.

“A detailed inventory, regular inspections and a check-out report can also help agents identify concerns early and deal with any deposit deductions fairly.

“Landlords can require a property to be returned to the same standard of cleanliness and condition as at the start of the tenancy, allowing for reasonable wear and tear, but cannot require a tenant to pay for professional cleaning or flea treatment.”