Rental searches for pet friendly properties drop after law change

Searches for rental properties that permit pets in England have significantly declined since new legislation granted renters more rights. Data from Rightmove reveals that searches dropped by more than 50% in May and June compared to the previous year, following the introduction of the Renters' Rights Act in May. This law prohibits landlords from unreasonably refusing pet requests.

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Landlords must consider requests fairly and cannot unreasonably refuse them, but they can still decline where there is a valid reason.

Despite the legal changes, confusion appears to be widespread. Letting agents report that some renters mistakenly believe permission for pets is automatically guaranteed. Landlords, conversely, point out that certain properties remain unsuitable for pets, especially larger breeds or multiple animals. Megan Eighteen, past president of ARLA Propertymark, noted that landlords must consider requests fairly but can still refuse them for valid reasons, highlighting "potential for misunderstanding" among tenants.

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There was plenty of potential for misunderstanding, among tenants about pet-friendly properties.

The shift in power dynamics is evident, with fewer tenants proactively filtering for pet-friendly options. While pets still lead as the most searched-for amenity, surpassing gardens and garages, the margin has narrowed. Searches for pet-friendly rentals fell by 54% in May and 52% in June year-on-year, with the trend accelerating as the law change approached and was implemented. Some tenants have reportedly disclosed pet ownership only after signing tenancy agreements, or pets have been discovered during inspections.

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The reality is that tenants now understand the balance of power has shifted. Landlords can no longer rely on a blanket 'no pets' policy to deter applications and should instead expect conversations around pet ownership to arise much later in the letting process.

Landlords can still deny pets under specific circumstances, such as another tenant having allergies, the property being too small, the pet being illegal, or a freeholder's restrictions. Previously, individuals like Eve Williamson had to re-home their pets or face eviction. Williamson described the experience as "awful," emphasizing the emotional support pets provide. She expressed delight with the new law change, while others, like Katie Smith, who lives with two cats, highlighted the positive impact pets have on family life and teaching children about responsibility.

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Life can get tough, but pets bring unconditional love. They're family.