Total Landlord has announced the launch of a brand-new pet damage protection policy, introduced ahead of the anticipated implementation of the Renters’ Rights Bill. The move comes as the rental sector faces ongoing debates about pet ownership in rented homes and the financial impact this can have on landlords.
The policy has been created in direct response to concerns about the potential costs associated with pet-related damage. As more tenants request permission to keep animals, landlords have been voicing the need for greater financial protection. The timing of the launch, just before new legislation comes into force, is seen as a proactive step to address those concerns.
Figures from Total Landlord reveal that disputes involving pets are significantly more expensive than those without. On average, the costs involved are 141% higher, with settlements for pet damage averaging £1,520.24. By comparison, disputes that do not involve pets average £629.92.
One of the most striking statistics is that in 35% of cases where pet damage is involved, the repair bill ends up being higher than the deposit protected. This means that even with a security deposit in place, landlords can be left out of pocket, covering substantial additional costs themselves.
Such expenses are often the result of damage to carpets, furniture, walls, or other parts of the property caused by pets. While many pets are well-behaved, there are still cases where even minor accidents can lead to costly repairs or replacements, especially when damage accumulates over time.
The new policy from Total Landlord aims to bridge that gap. It offers landlords financial protection of up to £2,500 per tenancy period to cover pet-related damage to the building or landlord-owned contents. This is designed to help landlords manage unexpected repair bills without impacting their cash flow.
Importantly, the policy is not just limited to sudden accidents. It also covers gradual wear and tear specifically caused by pets. For example, a dog repeatedly scratching a door or a cat sharpening its claws on a carpet over several months would be included in the cover.
By including both accidental damage and gradual deterioration, the policy provides a much broader safety net. This means landlords can confidently allow pets in their properties without the constant worry of how to pay for repairs if issues arise.
To be eligible for the cover, landlords will need to follow certain steps. They must take a standard security deposit from the tenant and ensure it is protected in a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme, as required by law.
Additionally, they must arrange for a professional inventory or condition report at the start of the tenancy. This documentation helps establish the state of the property before the tenant moves in, ensuring any later claims for damage can be clearly evidenced.
The annual cost of the policy has been set at £134.40 per property. For many landlords, this will be considered a modest investment when weighed against the potential expense of repairing or replacing damaged fixtures and fittings.
Total Landlord’s chief executive, Eddie Hooker, explained the reasoning behind the new product. He pointed out that with deposits now capped at five weeks’ rent, landlords’ financial protection is already limited.
He also noted that the government’s recent decision not to require tenants to take out pet damage insurance has left landlords exposed to more risk. Without a policy like this in place, landlords could find themselves absorbing significant costs.
Mr Hooker emphasised that the policy is designed to give landlords peace of mind. He acknowledged that pets can make a home feel complete, but also recognised the challenges they can bring when it comes to property upkeep.
He concluded by stating that Total Landlord’s pet damage protection policy will give landlords the reassurance they need to say “yes” to responsible pet ownership, without fearing unexpected and expensive repair bills.
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