Protection against pet damage added to Tenant’s Contents Insurance

We’ve unveiled the latest changes to our Tenant’s Contents Insurance, ensuring Paymentshield stay ahead of the changes proposed in the forthcoming Renters’ Rights Bill.

Our updated Tenant’s Contents Insurance will add further protection for damage that might be caused by a pet the tenant might have living with them to the landlord’s property, with cover extending up to £10,000. Providing that damage is to the landlord's property, tenants can now claim for certain types of pet damage under the tenant's liability section of the cover. Examples could include a dog chewing a table or a cat fouling on the carpet. 

The Renters’ Rights Bill, which is expected to become law this spring, will see landlords no longer able to “unreasonably” refuse a tenant’s request to keep a pet at a property. However, landlords will be able to require a tenant has suitable insurance in place to cover any damage that the pet may cause to their property.  

Our proactive policy update aims to provide tenants and landlords with greater protection and peace of mind ahead of the proposed regulatory change.

Paymentshield’s Tenants’ Contents Insurance is available on a rolling subscription basis providing tenants with greater flexibility should their circumstances change.

Rana Ali, Director of Distribution for Lettings at Paymentshield, adds:

“The long-awaited Renters’ Rights Bill is set to reshape the private rental sector. Our team has been working hard to ensure that we’re well-placed to support both tenants and landlords throughout this time and the changes to our Tenant’s Contents Insurance policy reflect this.

“Our updated policy means tenants will already have the cover in place to meet any stipulations from the landlord, making the addition of a pet to the house possible and providing peace of mind for both parties.”