Recent analysis by Zero Deposit has revealed that only 8% of rental properties in the UK are explicitly advertised as pet-friendly, despite increasing legislative efforts aimed at preventing landlords from unreasonably restricting tenants with pets.

A review of current rental listings found that out of 101,908 properties available, only 7,788 specify that pets are permitted. This remains a considerable challenge for pet owners seeking accommodation, particularly as government policies move toward greater inclusivity in the rental market.

The forthcoming Renters’ Rights Bill is expected to introduce measures that limit landlords’ ability to enforce outright pet bans. This follows previous amendments to the government’s model tenancy agreement, which were designed to promote the acceptance of well-behaved pets.

Despite these developments, Zero Deposit’s findings suggest that landlords continue to be hesitant about allowing pets. The North East was identified as having the highest proportion of pet-friendly rental listings at 9%. London, the South West, South East, and North West each recorded 8%, while the East of England followed at 7%. The East Midlands and Yorkshire & Humber were both at 6%, with the West Midlands ranking lowest at 5%.

Sam Reynolds, CEO of Zero Deposit, said: “There’s a natural reticence for landlords to open their property to pets for fear of the damage they can potentially cause. Many will have experienced pet damage to their properties which has shaped this preference. But these landlords are swimming against an increasingly fervent tide.

“The UK Government is attempting to satisfy tenant demand for pet-friendly homes and when the Renters’ Rights Bill is finally introduced, landlords will find it increasingly difficult to deselect lets with animal companions.

“While public opinion is naturally in favour of improving accessibility for pet-owners, landlord concerns do hold weight. Property damage costs money to repair. This spend can be challenging to recoup and can eat into profit margins. And while the Renters’ Rights Bill disallows the blanket banning of pets, it also limits the amount of money landlords are allowed to take from their tenants for security deposits, further exposing landlords to the risk of property damage and, therefore, to loss of income.

“It is possible that the bill will give landlords the right to insist that specific insurance is taken out to protect against pet-related damage, thus providing greater security.”

As legislative changes advance, landlords will need to assess how best to comply with new requirements while managing the associated risks. Further provisions, such as mandatory pet insurance, could provide additional financial safeguards for landlords while ensuring greater access to rental housing for pet owners.