Should You Allow Pets in Your Rental Property? | NestKey Lettings Doncaster

🐾 Should You Allow Pets in Your Rental Property? A Landlord’s Guide

For many tenants, a home isn’t complete without their furry companion — and since the pandemic, the number of pet owners in the UK has soared.
At the same time, landlords often worry about property damage, odours, or extra cleaning costs.

So what’s the right decision? Should you allow pets in your rental property? Let’s explore the pros, cons, and how to stay compliant as a landlord in 2025.

🏠 The Legal Context: Pets and Tenancy Agreements

Under the Renters Reform Bill, landlords can no longer issue a blanket “no pets” policy.
Tenants now have the right to request permission to keep a pet, and landlords must consider each request reasonably.

You can still refuse — but only with a valid reason, such as:

• The property being unsuitable (e.g., small flat, shared HMO)

• Lease restrictions or insurance policies that prohibit animals

• Health or allergy concerns for other tenants

💡 Tip: Always reply to a pet request in writing within 42 days, as the legislation requires.

✅ Benefits of Allowing Pets

1. Wider Tenant Pool
   Pet-friendly homes attract more applicants — especially families and long-term renters.

2. Longer Tenancies
   Tenants with pets move less often because finding pet-friendly accommodation can be difficult.

3. Higher Rent Potential
   Many landlords successfully charge a small rent premium (usually £20–£50 per month) for pet-friendly homes.

4. Better Tenant Relationships
   Being flexible and understanding builds goodwill, which can lead to more responsible tenants.

⚠️ Risks to Consider

1. Property Damage
   Scratched floors, chewed skirting boards, or garden damage can happen — particularly with puppies or larger dogs.

2. Odours and Allergies
   Lingering smells or pet hair can be difficult to remove and may affect future tenants.

3. Noise Complaints
   Barking or uncontrolled pets could disturb neighbours, especially in HMOs or flats.

4. Cleaning & Maintenance Costs
   You may need extra cleaning between tenancies or professional carpet cleaning.

🧾 How to Protect Your Property

If you decide to accept pets, a few simple measures can keep things under control:

• Add a Pet Clause to your Tenancy Agreement (NestKey provides one as standard).

• Request information about the pet — breed, age, temperament, and number.

• Conduct mid-tenancy inspections more regularly to ensure the property stays in good condition.

• Require professional cleaning at the end of the tenancy.

• Check your landlord insurance includes pet-related damage cover.

🐕 A Balanced Approach

Completely banning pets may limit your potential tenant base, especially as new legislation favours renters.
By setting clear expectations and including proper clauses, you can protect your property while offering flexibility.

At NestKey Lettings, we help landlords create fair, compliant tenancy agreements that protect their investments — whether tenants come with or without pets.

🏡 Get in touch today for free advice or to learn how we manage tenancies across Doncaster, Sheffield, and South Yorkshire.