It’s increasingly difficult to get a pet-friendly rental
According to research by Home Made, Pet ownership has increased during the pandemic. Yet, only 2.8% of UK rental properties are advertised as pet-friendly.
Plymouth is home to pet-friendly rental properties, with 8% of rents being pet-friendly, followed by Edinburgh (6%).
However, in Belfast and Leicester, no pet-friendly properties are advertised.
Nationally, 39% of renters with pets in the UK have not been able to rent a property just because they have a pet.
“Landlords are concerned about the damage pets can cause to their property.”
Asaf Navot, CEO of Home Made, said: “We are a nation of pet lovers, even more so after closing. But finding a rental property that suits you and your pet or pets can be difficult.
“It is understandable that many homeowners are concerned about the potential damage to their property, as we know that pets can be difficult for the home.”
“But there are real advantages to renting to pet owners: They are often more conscientious tenants and stay longer.”
He added: “If you are a landlord concerned about your property, talk to potential tenants about the additional wear and tear and take that into account in your lease negotiations. You can also spend some time protecting the property with pets by removing items such as rugs that could be easily damaged.”
“No one should have to rehome a pet due to a lack of housing options, and finding pet-friendly properties should be easier. As a team of animal lovers, we have created a search tool for ‘pet-friendly properties’ on our site so that potential renters can find the perfect place to live.”
More than half of tenants would be happy to pay at least 5% more rent as a “pet premium” to mitigate pet wear and tear.
“Pets have been an emotional lifesaver during the lockdown.”
Due to the outbreak of COVID-19 in the UK, the lockdown has been one of the biggest challenges for the British population’s mental health. However, pets have become the solution to this problem by making time at home more bearable.
Pets not only serve as a company, but they also keep us alert and aware of their care, so we will always be active, and thanks to that, we do not get depressed. Doctors recommend having a pet, especially if you are prone to depression and emotional relapses. Having a little friend to take care of and accompany us throughout our daily journey is a blessing!
Sadly, the UK government has yet to take action on the pet-friendly rental issue, something that has been widely requested by UK tenants who disapprove of separating from their pets just to be allowed to rent a property.
HICH LTD offers the best property survey service before, during, and after the pandemic. We have redoubled our efforts to maintain the quality standard that has made us a leading property survey company.
Want a Building Survey? Request it here!
Follow us on our social networks to keep up to date with the most relevant property market news, tips for being a responsible homeowner, and much more!
Twitter: @HichLTD
Facebook: HICH-LTD
