Some 78% of landlords have discovered a pet living on their property that their tenants did not tell them about, a new study by CIA Landlord has found.
Pets of all types are permitted by just 18% of landlords, while tenants will often be charged extra if they insist on moving their pets in with them.
It is believed that the average amount paid by landlords to repair damage to their property caused by animals is around £180 over the lifetime of a tenancy.
Richard Wayman, finance director at CIA Landlord, said: “As a landlord, it can be a difficult decision on whether you want to enforce a no-pets-allowed policy in your property.
“From damages to the furniture to happier tenants, there are many disadvantages and advantages to allowing a tenant to keep a pet.
“It’s important that you fully consider all aspects before deciding what is best for you and your property.”
39% of landlords said they were most worried about pets injuring other tenants when asked why they are reluctant to allow them on their property, while 35% were concerned that the pets may not be properly trained.
Around 40% of Brits own pets, and 93% say that owning a pet makes them feel happy.