A big rise in the number of London tenants with dogs, combined with a lack of supply of flats whose head leases allow pets, is resulting in huge premiums on deposits (up to £25,000+) for properties which do allow them, according to a survey by E J Harris.
Ten years ago, none of the lettings firm’s London tenants had dogs, rising to 2% five years ago, and steadily increasing to 30% this year. However, 40% of all Prime Central London flats do not allow dogs because it is written into the head lease.
Homes around Hyde Park, Regent’s Park, Green Park and Holland Park are apparently most sought-after for tenants seeking dog-friendly homes in Prime Central London. Properties near parks that allow pets can therefore command high price premiums and large deposits.
Elizabeth Harris, MD of E J Harris said: “We have seen a significant rise in the number of dog-owning tenants looking for private rental accommodation in Central London. These tenants want luxury pads close to Hyde Park or Regent’s Park, where they can take their pets for walks.
“In our experience tenants who own dogs make for reliable and responsible tenants who take good care of the property and keep their pets pampered and well trained. We advise dog-owning tenants to create a ‘pet CV’ that provides a detailed description of the pet and outlines key facts regarding behavior, health and grooming, which can help alleviate the landlord’s concerns.”
