Pet damage insurance protection

Pet damage protection for landlords

Renting to tenants with pets? Protect your property with confidence. 

Total Landlord’s pet damage protection insurance gives you peace of mind by covering the cost of damage caused by tenants' pets, so you can welcome responsible pet owners without worrying about expensive repairs. It’s the ideal solution for NRLA members who want to stay protected while meeting the growing demand for pet-friendly rentals.

Why choose Total Landlord's pet damage protection?

• Provides up to £2,500 cover per policy period for damage to buildings or contents if insured
• Includes cover for one off events during the tenancy
• Includes cover above wear and tear from the pet such as scratching
• Covers up to three pets per residential premises
• Covers all domestic pets kept indoors

Add extra protection with pet damage insurance from Total Landlord

Designed exclusively for landlords, pet damage protection can be extended to a new or an existing Total Landlord insurance policy. We offer trusted, award-winning cover tailored to the needs of the evolving private rental sector. Getting covered is simple - just reach out to our expert team for a quick, no-obligation quote and personalised support.

If you are an existing customer, please fill out this form to find out more. If you are new customer you can get a quote here.

Expand your rental appeal by welcoming pets

As demand for pet-friendly properties continues to rise, landlords have a valuable opportunity to tap into a wider tenant market. Under the Renters’ Rights Act, tenants will have the right to request permission to keep a pet, and landlords will not be able to unreasonably refuse. With the security of pet damage protection insurance, you can make your property pet friendly and attract tenants who are more likely to stay long-term and treat your property as a home. This can lead to reduced void periods, greater rental stability, and the potential for higher rental yields.

Protect your investment while offering pet-friendly lets

Renting to tenants with pets can boost your property's appeal but it also comes with the potential for damage and extra wear and tear. With pet damage protection in place, you’re covered for accidental damage caused by pets, from scratched surfaces to stained carpets. This added layer of cover gives you the confidence to say yes to pets, knowing your property remains protected and your investment secure.

Pet damage protection FAQs

We’ve answered the most frequently asked questions about insuring your rental property against pet-related damage, so you can make an informed decision about protecting your property.

What does Total Landlord's pet damage protection cover?

Our pet damage protection policy gives landlords up to £2,500 in cover for damage caused by tenants’ pets. This protection kicks in once the tenancy deposit has been used, offering extra reassurance where traditional deposits fall short.

How much does pet damage protection cost?

The policy is priced at £134.40 including Insurance Premium Tax, which works out at just over £11.20 per month. It covers up to three pets per property. Landlords hold the policy directly, so they’re guaranteed access to the claims process. As an added benefit, insurance premiums are tax-deductible against rental income.

Is pet damage included in standard landlord insurance?

Most landlord insurance policies exclude damage caused by pets. Total Landlord offers pet damage protection as an optional extension to our landlord insurance, available to both new and existing customers.

Does landlord insurance cover pet damage?

Most landlord insurance policies do not cover damage caused by tenants’ pets. Total Landlord offers pet damage protection insurance as an extension to our landlord insurance policies for both new and existing customers.

Does the policy cover wear and tear from pets?

Yes. Unlike many other policies, our cover includes pet-related wear and tear - providing it’s not the result of landlord neglect, poor maintenance, or unhygienic living conditions. One-off incidents like accidental damage to furnishings are also covered.

Are all types of pets covered?

The policy applies to domestic or tamed animals kept by tenants inside the property. Within this definition, we don’t exclude by breed or species. Pet details are only needed when you submit a claim.

What isn't covered by pet damage protection?

The policy excludes:

• Damage claims over £2,500 per tenant per policy period
• Issues caused by tenant neglect, poor hygiene, or persistent odours
• Damage to outdoor or landscaped areas including fences
• Properties housing more than three pets, whether full or part time
• Properties where the tenant breeds animals
• General wear and tear to the property not attributable to domestic pets
• Routine cleaning costs stated in the tenancy agreement
• Injury to third parties and guests, and their property
• Breaches of general policy terms and conditions

Currently, Total Landlord is not offering the pet damage extension to landlords who do not take a traditional security deposit or who use deposit replacement products.

If I've taken a deposit, do I still need pet damage protection?

Yes. While a deposit is always a good idea, the current cap of five weeks’ rent might not be sufficient to cover both damage and rent arrears. According to NRLA deposit protection partner, mydeposits research, in 35% of claims involving pet damage, the cost of repairs exceeds the deposit protected, leaving landlords vulnerable to significant out-of-pocket expenses Even if deposit limits rise, tenants may not be able to afford a higher upfront amount. Pet damage protection bridges that gap by offering additional cover beyond the deposit. The deposit will always be the first port of call for any pet related damage, with the pet damage insurance extension picking up any excess cost once the deposit is exhausted.

Can landlords still say no to pets?

It’s becoming increasingly difficult to refuse pets. The Renters’ Rights Bill includes a provision that allows tenants to request permission to keep a pet and landlords must have a reasonable basis to decline. This follows earlier changes to the government’s model tenancy agreement, which made consent for pets the default position. With these changes in motion, landlords are encouraged to adapt and take steps to protect their properties.

What are the benefits of accepting tenants with pets?

Pet owners often stay in properties for longer periods and are typically seeking stable, long-term homes. This can reduce voids and improve tenant retention. A study by Battersea Dogs and Cats Home found that landlords who accept pets generally see higher returns than they spend on pet-related issues. With the right protection in place, accepting pets can be a smart way to improve occupancy and attract responsible renters.

Should I get pet damage cover even if my current tenant doesn’t have a pet?

Sometimes tenants bring in pets without notifying the landlord, or they may request a pet later in the tenancy when the deposit amount has already been agreed. Pet damage protection gives you added cover in these situations, whether or not a pet has been declared upfront.

How do I make a claim for pet damage?

If you need to make a claim, contact us as soon as possible. You can either call us on 0203 907 1779 or claim online by completing the enquiry form on our website.

What evidence is required when making a claim?

You’ll need a professional inventory/condition report and confirmation that the deposit has been used, which can be for any settlement type. Claims must be identified by agreement with the tenant, a dispute resolution decision by a government authorised tenancy deposit scheme or court order. Landlords are required to have taken a traditional security deposit in accordance with the Tenant Fees Act and protected it with a formal tenancy deposit protection scheme. Please note that pet damage insurance is not available to landlords who do not take a security deposit or who utilise a deposit replacement product or similar. 

Tempted to maximise your rental potential with pet-friendly lets?

Download our free checklists for landlords and tenants to help you manage the benefits and minimise the risks of pets in lets.

How to get a quote for pet damage protection

You can add Total Landlord’s pet damage protection to your existing landlord insurance policy. It’s quick and easy - just contact our friendly team and we’ll walk you through the quote process.

Contact us today to get a quote.