We are quite new to being landlords.
Our tenant of 12 months would like a dog, I understand with the new renters rights it is harder to refuse, what safeguards could we put in place?
thanks
First check lease allows dogs if leasehold.
Get details and consider if suitable for the property but as you say hard to refuse
Have a proper pet policy and go through it with tenants
See eg https://theindependentlandlord.com/resources/property-investors-glossary/pet-policy/
You can ask them what experience they have training a dog, what breed they want, And how dog will be cared for when they are at work
You can make sure you complete and up to date inventory photos including everything a dog might damage (floors, skirting, carpets, stairs etc)
You could inspect more frequently after dog arrives to check it’s not causing damage.
You can increase rent more than you otherwise would to allow for extra risk of damage, and add pet damage to your LL insurance
Good luck
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when can a landlord refuse a pet
In England, under the Renters’ Rights Act, a landlord can only refuse a written pet request if they have a reasonable, property-specific justification. Blanket “no pets” bans are illegal. [1, 2, 3]
Valid Reasons for Refusal
A landlord may lawfully say no if:
- Allergies: Another tenant at the property has an allergy. – MoneyHelper.
- Property Size: The property is too small for a large pet or several pets. – GOV.UK.
- Illegal Animals: The pet is illegal to own. – GOV.UK.
- Freeholder Rules: If you’re a leaseholder and the freeholder does not allow pets. – GOV.UK.
Unacceptable Reasons for Refusal
A landlord cannot reject a pet because they:
- Simply dislike animals or rely on a blanket policy.
- Worry about potential future damage without specific evidence.
- Had bad experiences with previous tenants’ pets. [1, 2]
Tenants must submit requests in writing, and landlords are required to respond within 28 days. [1, 2]
flat or a house , this property ?