With the upcoming Renters’ Rights Bill, landlords and letting agents across the UK are preparing for one of the most notable changes: tenants will gain a stronger right to request pets in rental homes. For many property professionals, this brings questions about revenue protection, compliance, and maintaining good tenant relationships.

While the bill restricts the use of higher deposits or mandatory insurance, landlords aren’t powerless. In fact, by focusing on good communication, meticulous record keeping, and proactive property care, you can safeguard your rental income while building stronger, more trusting tenant relationships.

This blog post explores practical, future-proof strategies to help you adapt to these changes.

Understanding the Change: Pets and the Renters’ Rights Bill

The government’s intention behind expanding pet rights is clear: to make renting fairer, more flexible, and aligned with modern tenants’ lifestyles. Pets are increasingly seen as part of the family, and more tenants are seeking homes that welcome them.

For landlords, this means:

• You cannot automatically refuse pets without good reason.

• You cannot raise deposits above the legal limit to cover potential pet-related damage.

• You cannot insist on tenants buying mandatory insurance to offset risks.

Instead, the emphasis is on managing tenancies proactively so that pets do not jeopardise your property’s value or your rental revenue.

Strong Communication is Key

Good communication is the backbone of successful property management, especially when adapting to legal change.

Set Clear Expectations Early

When tenants request pets, have an open discussion about responsibilities. Set out guidelines in writing around:

• Acceptable pet types and numbers.

• Maintenance of the property (e.g., cleaning carpets, managing odours).

• Expectations for noise and behaviour.

This isn’t about being restrictive, it’s about setting fair, transparent terms that protect both parties.

togetha’s Tenant Portal

With togetha’s tenant portal, all communication is secure, centralised, and fully auditable. Messages, agreements, and documents are logged automatically, creating a digital audit trail that’s invaluable if disputes ever arise.

Instead of relying on scattered emails or WhatsApp messages, you’ll have a clear, professional communication channel, giving you peace of mind and authority.

The Power of Record Keeping

If a dispute about pet-related damage arises, your ability to demonstrate the property’s prior condition is crucial.

Inventory and Condition Reports

A detailed inventory before move-in is essential. Include:

• High-resolution photos of floors, walls, and furnishings.

• Notes on cleanliness and existing wear and tear.

• Confirmation signed by both landlord and tenant.

Secure Document Storage with togetha

Using togetha’s Vault, you can store inventories, signed tenancy agreements, and inspection reports in one secure, encrypted location. This ensures compliance, reduces risk, and protects you if issues go to arbitration or court.

No more misplaced paperwork: everything is accessible, backed up, and safely stored.

Regular Inspections and Proactive Maintenance

A “wait-and-see” approach is no longer enough. Regular inspections and preventative maintenance are your strongest allies.

Inspections:

Schedule regular inspections to check for signs of wear, odour, or pet-related issues. Early intervention can save hundreds of pounds in long-term repairs.

The 1% Rule:

A well-established property management principle is the 1% rule; setting aside 1% of the property’s value annually for upkeep. For example, if your property is valued at £200,000, budget £2,000 a year for maintenance.

Pets or not, this practice ensures your property remains attractive, safe, and competitive in the rental market.

togetha’s Calendar Management

With togetha’s smart calendar, you’ll never miss an inspection or maintenance appointment. Schedule reminders, sync with your day-to-day workflow, and keep everything organised. Staying on top of inspections means fewer surprises and a stronger grip on your investment.

Building Trust with Tenants

Welcoming pets doesn’t have to mean risk. In fact, it can be a way to build trust and loyalty with tenants who are more likely to stay long term.

Pet-friendly properties often enjoy reduced void periods, since demand is high.

Tenants with happy pets are less likely to move frequently.

By being flexible and approachable, you foster goodwill that translates to smoother tenancies.

With togetha’s tools, you’ll be able to manage this flexibility with confidence, knowing your systems back you up at every stage.

Bringing It All Together with togetha

Adapting to the Renters’ Rights Bill doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right systems in place, you can protect your property revenue, keep tenants happy, and stay compliant.

Here’s how togetha helps you stay in control:

• Tenant Portal – Secure communication and a full audit trail for peace of mind.

• Vault – Encrypted document storage for inventories, agreements, and inspection records.

• Calendar Management – Stay on top of inspections and maintenance to protect your assets.

By focusing on communication, documentation, and proactive care, you not only safeguard your income but also position yourself as a professional, future-ready landlord or agent.

Ready to say "yes" to pets?

The right to request pets is coming, and with it, opportunities to strengthen your portfolio management approach. By embracing proactive strategies and leveraging tools like togetha, you can protect your property revenue without needing extra deposits or insurance.

Instead of seeing these changes as a challenge, view them as a chance to modernise your processes, deepen tenant relationships, and stay ahead of compliance. Find out how togetha can help maximise your revenue and book your 20 minute demo today.