The volume of UK home-hunters searching for pet-friendly rental properties has jumped since the start of lockdown, according to a rental platform.

Searches for homes allowing pets have more than doubled according to Movebubble, which analysed internal data from over 700,000 users comparing late March with early May. 

The trend for ‘pet-friendly’ rentals also continues on a macro level as searches on the platform are also up 68 per cent compared to June 2019.

In addition, there has been a rise in searches for properties with outdoor space on the platform’s video features.

“Since lockdown came into effect, people … have shown a real shift in new priorities coming to light in the search for a new home. With millions of people now working from home or on extended furlough, many have taken the opportunity to quench long-held aspirations to have a pet to keep them company” explains Aidan Rushby, the platform’s chief executive.

“While today’s forced remote working culture has been an adjustment for lots of Brits, many are looking forward to the possibility of working from home more after the pandemic subsides – suggesting we could see this burgeoning trend continuing. 

“Earlier in the year, Housing Secretary Robert Jenrick called on landlords to make it easier for tenants renting a property with pets, so homeowners are being actively encouraged to consider responsible tenants with furry friends.”