It can be difficult to find a rental property for anyone. If you have a pet, this can make it even trickier.
Moving with your animals can be a problematic process, as not all landlords will appreciate having a pet in their property. They can be wary of damage to furniture, fixtures, fittings, and potential fleas.
This can cause an issue for pet owners looking to rent, especially homes in urban areas.
Here is some advice for tenants with pets:
- Give yourself lots of time to look for a home, and prepare yourself for a quick move if somewhere becomes available and will accept your pet.
- Ensure that your pet is house-trained, and obedience-trained. Control any fleas and ticks also, and make sure the landlord is aware of these things. If they know the pet is well handled, they may be more likely to rent to you.
- Suggest introducing the landlord to your pet. If they see how well behaved they are, they may consider renting.
- Be prepared to pay a higher deposit, and offer to do so if the landlord is reluctant.
- Offer to remove all traces of your pet when you leave the property, this could be added as a clause to the tenancy agreement. It is a good idea to specify what this will include, for example professional carpet cleaning.
- If you wish to insert a cat-flap, approach the landlord or letting agent by explaining that you will ensure the property is as it was when you moved in upon leaving.
- Dogs Trust has launched a campaign called Lets with Pets, aiming to encourage landlords to rent to tenants with pets. You can visit their website to find out more, and for more information about renting with pets.