Most cited reason revealed
There has been a dramatic increase in tenants moving property in order to accommodate a pet, and a noticeable decline in renters who are prioritising homes with more outdoor space, the Deposit Protection Service (DPS) has revealed.
Its survey of around 1,000 tenants who had moved property between October 2021 and March 2022 found that 30% had done so to accommodate a pet, making it the most common reason for moving.
Last year, only 7% cited pets as the most significant influence over their decision to move, making it the least common factor. Around 18% said that outdoor space was the most important factor in their move last year.
However, in this year’s survey, just 11% of respondents cited ‘more outdoor space’ as the reason for their move, making it the least common influence over their decision.
“The easing of restrictions earlier this year means that tenants are typically not as interested in moving away from cities to more rural or suburban areas as they understandably were during the height of the pandemic,” Matt Trevett, managing director at DPS, said.
“However, it’s interesting to see that the reported popularity of pets during the lockdown period seems to be having a continued influence over tenants’ priorities. The present high level of demand for rental properties means that tenants who secure homes that allow pets typically stay for longer, resulting in more certainty for both tenant and landlord.”
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Trevett added that tenants should understand and respect any obligations that come with having a pet and consider what changes they may need to make to meet a ‘pet-friendly’ tenancy agreement, which may reduce the chances of issues when they move out.
He advised tenants to confirm ‘pet rules’ in writing; get the right insurance; provide an emergency number for somebody who can look after the pet if they fall ill and need to go to a hospital; and determine if there are legal provisions that allow certain pets, like for people with disabilities who need an assistance dog.
Trevett also said it is important to ask for a pet reference to understand whether the animal is aggressive or has received its vaccinations and correct treatments; and arrange regular inspections to assess and discuss the condition of the property.
