Discussing pet ownership in the UK often highlights the challenges renters face in finding pet-friendly accommodation, but what’s less frequently mentioned is that about 1 in 10 tenants hide their pets from their landlords. This is notable considering 53% of the UK adult population owns a pet.
Many clients relocating to the UK are surprised by the difficulty in finding pet-friendly housing, especially given the nation’s love for animals. London, for example, appears very pet-friendly on the surface—with numerous pubs, cafes, and even some department stores welcoming dogs. However, the restriction often comes from landlords who are hesitant to allow pets.
This reluctance can be attributed to past experiences with irresponsible tenants whose pets caused significant damage, buildings with explicit no-pets policies, and often, for monetary reasons—less wear and tear on the property. Landlords ideally want tenants who are rarely home and consistently pay rent on time.
Lack of Government Direction in the Rental Market
The rental market is highly regulated, yet the absence of specific legislation regarding pets in properties leads to chaotic situations where many people hide their pets from their landlords. The government has suggested that landlords should consider allowing pets, but without legislation, landlords typically prioritise their interests.
Estate agents, too, are often hesitant to push the issue with landlords for fear of losing business, and in a competitive market, it’s simpler to find tenants without pets.
The Consequences of Excluding Pets
The widespread refusal to accept pets has, in some ways, backfired. Many tenants, frustrated by high rents and restrictive policies, feel justified in secretly keeping pets. Some even resort to temporarily removing their pets from the property during landlord visit, something a lot of people expressed in a recent Tik Tok video, @russellhunt272. Reading the comments seriously revealed how strongly people feel. The passion tenants have for their pets and giving them a home is matched by the passion landlords have about not allowing pets.
I am all about educating landlords on the benefits of allowing pets in rental properties. I am myself a landlord. I happily allow pets. I find tenants with pets on the whole to be really responsible. Far more so than sharers or students.
Advice for Relocating to the UK with Pets
For those moving from countries like the US and Canada, I advise against taking risks with undeclared pets. It’s crucial to have a pet clause in your rental agreement to avoid potential eviction. Ensure that everything, including the type and names of your pets, is clearly written into the tenancy agreement. This way, you’re legally covered, even if complaints arise.
Some buildings in London may have a no-pets policy, and while some concierges might overlook pets, it’s risky without legal protection.
Ensuring a Smooth Rental Experience with Pets
Renting with pets should be done properly to enjoy your home without worry. Upon leaving, obtaining a landlord reference that includes notes on your pets’ behaviour can be invaluable for securing future rentals.
Navigating the rental market with pets requires careful planning and open communication, ensuring that both tenant and landlord expectations are met, and that pets can truly make a house a home.
I hope this information is helpful. If you’re relocating to the UK with your pets, feel free to join our informative Facebook group, “Relocating to the UK with your Pets”, for more guidance and support.
Russell Hunt is the founder of Petslets.com, a UK-based pet-friendly property portal, as well as Petsletsrelocation.com, where he serves as a pet-friendly UK property specialist. He advises clients on renting and buying properties in and around London.
