The rental market is changing — and one of the biggest shifts in recent years is the growing demand for pet-friendly homes. With over half of UK households now owning a pet, it’s no surprise that more tenants are asking landlords to accommodate their furry (or feathery) companions.
For landlords, this can raise concerns: property damage, noise complaints, or cleanliness issues. But with the right approach, you can create a fair and balanced pet policy that protects your property while opening your doors to a larger, more loyal tenant pool.
Here’s how to get it right — and stay professional.
Why Consider Allowing Pets?
1. Wider Tenant Pool
Pet-friendly properties receive more enquiries and are often let more quickly. In tight rental markets like Edinburgh or Glasgow, this can make your listing stand out.
2. Longer Tenancy Durations
Pet owners move less frequently — once settled, they’re more likely to stay long-term. That means fewer void periods and lower turnover costs for you.
3. Better Tenant Relationships
Being flexible about pets often fosters trust and goodwill. Happy tenants are more likely to treat your property with respect and report issues early.
Your Legal Position as a Landlord
Under current Scottish legislation, there’s no obligation to accept pets, but the law does require that any refusal must be reasonable. This is particularly relevant for longer-term leases or for social housing tenancies.
The Scottish Government’s Model Private Residential Tenancy Agreement includes a clause requiring written permission to keep a pet — and landlords should not “unreasonably refuse.”
You can view the model tenancy agreement here:
gov.scot – Private Residential Tenancy Model Agreement
What to Include in a Pet Policy
A well-written pet policy can be included as part of your tenancy agreement or as a separate pet addendum.
Key points to cover:
- Type and Number of Pets Allowed
- Be clear on what’s permitted (e.g. one cat, two small dogs, no exotic pets)
- You may request a description or even a photo of the pet
- Written Permission Process
- Tenants must request permission before bringing in a pet
- Landlords can reserve the right to withdraw consent if problems arise
- Behaviour and Noise
- Pets must not cause a nuisance to neighbours (e.g. barking, aggression)
- Specify that tenants are responsible for controlling noise and mess
- Cleanliness and Damage
- Tenants must keep the property clean and free from pet odours
- Any pet-related damage must be repaired or paid for at the tenant’s expense
- Insurance and Responsibility
- Tenants should have contents insurance covering pet-related damage
- Some landlords request pet liability coverage where available
- End of Tenancy Cleaning
- Include a clause requiring professional cleaning if pets have lived in the home
- This includes carpets, upholstery, and fumigation if needed
Can You Charge a Pet Deposit?
In Scotland, you cannot charge an additional “pet deposit” — all deposits are legally capped at two months’ rent, regardless of the pet situation.
However, you can:
- Increase the rent slightly to reflect additional wear and tear
- Require professional cleaning at the end of the tenancy
- Make clear that any damage caused by pets will be deducted from the deposit
Always register the full deposit with an approved Tenancy Deposit Scheme.
Fair Screening Questions for Pet Owners
To ensure a good fit, you might reasonably ask:
- What type and breed of pet do you have?
- Is your pet house-trained?
- How long have you owned the pet?
- Have you rented with this pet before?
- Who will care for the pet when you’re away?
These help you assess how responsible the tenant is — without breaching their rights.
Flat or HMO Considerations
Pet policies are even more important in:
- Flats with shared stairwells: Noise and odour can travel
- HMO properties: Consent may be needed from other tenants; pets may not suit shared living spaces
- Furnished properties: More risk of damage or allergen issues
Set clear limits on the types of pets you’ll accept and where exceptions may apply.
Review and Renew Annually
A good pet policy is dynamic. Review your agreement annually and adapt if you:
- Change insurance providers
- Upgrade your property
- Switch tenant types (e.g. from families to students)
Regular reviews ensure your policy stays compliant, enforceable, and fair.
Useful Resources
- Scottish Government – Renting with Pets
- Shelter Scotland – Tenants and Pets
- Letting Agent Code of Practice – Landlord Pet Guidance
Final Thoughts
Welcoming pets doesn’t have to mean welcoming damage or disruption. With a clear agreement, professional approach, and fair rules, landlords can confidently rent to responsible pet owners while protecting their property.
Homesbook can help you draft pet clauses, screen applicants, and manage inspections — ensuring everyone (furry or not) is happy in their home.
