What Protection Against Pet Damage Will I Have?

The Renters' Rights Bill introduces significant changes regarding tenants' rights to keep pets in rental properties. As a landlord, it's essential to understand these changes and the protections available to you against potential pet-related damages.

Tenant Rights and Landlord Obligations

Under the new legislation, tenants have the right to request permission to keep a pet in your property.  As a landlord, you are required to consider such requests and cannot unreasonably refuse consent.  If you decide to decline the request, you must provide a valid reason in writing within a specified timeframe.  Acceptable reasons for refusal might include situations where the lease prohibts pets, where the pet is too large for the property or if another tenant in a shared accommodation has allergies.

Protections Against Pet Damage

The Renters’ Rights Bill originally contained a clause that meant landlords could require tenants to take out insurance against the risk of pet damage or to reimburse the landlord for their reasonable costs of taking out pet insurance.  However please note that this has now been removed and a landlord cannot require a tenant to take out pet insurance and cannot be reimbursed for the cost of pet insurance.

Practical Steps for Landlords

To safeguard your property while accommodating tenants with pets, consider the following steps:

• Include Pet Clauses in Tenancy Agreements: Clearly outline the tenant's responsibilities regarding pet care and maintenance in the tenancy agreement. This can include stipulations on cleanliness, noise control, and damage prevention.
• Conduct Regular Property Inspections: Schedule periodic inspections to identify and address any pet-related issues early. This proactive approach can prevent minor problems from escalating into significant damages.
• Request Cleaning to a Professional Standard: At the end of the tenancy, require tenants to perform a deep clean of the property to a professional standard, including carpet cleaning. While you cannot mandate the use of professional cleaning services, you can specify that the cleaning meets a professional standard.
• Obtain Pet References: If possible, ask for references from previous landlords regarding the pet's behaviour and any past issues. This can provide insight into potential risks associated with allowing the pet in your property.

Conclusion

The Renters' Rights Bill aims to balance the interests of tenants wishing to keep pets and landlords concerned about property damage. By understanding your rights and implementing appropriate measures, you can protect your property while fostering positive relationships with tenants.

Staying informed about these legislative changes is crucial. Consider joining local landlord associations or networks to access resources, legal advice, and support.  Alternatively, if you’re fed up with trying to keep up with all the changes, now might be the perfect time to reach out to a local letting agent!

Managing rentals is tough enough, add new legislation and it's even tricker. If you're in Wilton, Salisbury, Warminster or Amesbury, we're here to guide you through the Renters' Rights Bill with honest, no-nonesense advice. Have a read through our blogs for answers and updates, or contact us directly to chat: 01722 580059 or info@piccoloproperty.co.uk.