One in 10 tenants is ‘hiding a pet’ from their landlord

One in 10 renters say they are currently living with a furry friend in their rented home despite the landlord banning pets, a survey reveals.

Researchers questioned 1,000 adults who either rent or have rented a home while owning a pet at the same time.

The findings show that 25% of tenants say they’d had a pet previously which left them feeling anxious (52%), worried (45%) and guilty (28%).

The research was carried out by Mars Petcare which highlights that one in 10 tenants have been caught by a landlord – mainly down to a surprise visit (48%), or seeing the landlord when they were out, for example, walking their dog (21%).

Anonymous tip-offs led to 20% of those who have been caught and 22% of the renters who had been found out by their landlord being evicted.

Most popular animals owned by tenants

The most popular animals owned by tenants include dogs (59%), cats (56%) and rabbits (8%).

The research was commissioned to mark the launch of a digital guide called, ‘The Petiquette Guide to Rentals and Pet Ownership’, in partnership with Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.

The guide is aimed at helping renters and landlords to ‘navigate pet tenancy’.

Mars Petcare’s general manager, Paolo Rigamonti, said: “Responsible pet owners shouldn’t be denied the right to experience the joy and benefits of pet ownership just because they rent, but the current legislation and lack of clarity unfairly impacts renters.

“We also know just how severe the stress of living with uncertainty is for pet owning tenants and – with tenancy restrictions directly contributing to pet abandonment – it’s clear change needs to happen.”

Tenants haven’t asked their landlord for permission to keep a pet

Researchers found 37% of tenants haven’t asked their landlord for permission to keep a pet – mainly because they worry about being refused (24%) and being evicted (14%).

And 24% say they refuse to ask their landlord and will keep their pet regardless.

The lengths that tenants have gone to in a bid to keep their animals hidden include having someone on emergency standby to pet-sit (45%) and using room spray to conceal giveaway smells (37%).

Nearly a quarter (24%) of renters have lied to their landlord and said the animal isn’t theirs, but a friend’s, while 19% have covered their pet’s cage or bed with a sheet.

Why a landlord doesn’t allow pets in their rented property

The research also found that a third (34%) understand why a landlord doesn’t allow pets in their rented property – but they don’t agree with it.

And 69% of those surveyed say they support proposals in the Renters’ Reform Bill which will make it easier for tenants with a pet to find a home.

Almost nine in 10 (87%) agreed there are benefits to living with a pet, including combating loneliness (84%), reducing stress (75%) and encouraging exercise (63%).

But for 34%, having an animal has caused a problem for them when trying to find somewhere to live.

‘Some landlords have understandable concerns’

Mr Rigamonti said: “We know some landlords have understandable concerns, but many recognise the numerous benefits of renting to tenants with pets.”

Landlord, broadcaster and cat owner Zara McDermott (pictured) is working on the project, and she said: “As a cat parent to Cedric and Albus, I know first-hand just how much joy pets can bring to life every day.

“The thought of loving pet owners having to choose between remaining in their home and keeping their pet is just awful, which is why I’m so pleased to be working with Mars Petcare and Battersea – helping pet owners get clued up.”

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