Propertymark has published a guide for letting agents to help manage tenant pet requests, offering practical advice on risk management and dispute prevention in light of evolving regulations across the UK.
The guide focuses on new regulatory frameworks, including the Renters' Rights Act 2025 in England, which allows tenants to request permission to keep pets. Under this legislation, landlords must consider these requests within 28 days and cannot refuse them unreasonably. Scotland has also introduced similar protections via the Housing (Scotland) Act 2025.
Propertymark suggests that allowing pets could offer financial benefits for landlords. Their research indicates that pet-related damage accounts for less than half of non-pet-related damage, and tenants with pets typically remain in properties for longer periods. This could increase property desirability and encourage longer tenancies, potentially appealing to landlords seeking stable rental income.
The document outlines practical steps for agents, such as assessing property suitability for specific pets, checking lease restrictions, and requesting information like landlord and veterinary references or pet CVs from prospective tenants. It also recommends arranging meetings between landlords, tenants, and pets when appropriate, and stresses the importance of detailed inventories and regular inspections to protect both parties.
Henry Griffith, Senior Policy and Campaigns Officer at Propertymark, stated that the way pet requests are handled can significantly impact the landlord, tenant, and the wider tenancy. He added that it is increasingly important for agents to understand the rules in their area and provide accurate guidance due to the evolving regulatory position across the UK.