Although most landlords may see pets as a hindrance for potential tenants, possibly causing damage, noise, hygiene and insurance issues, allowing pets actually provides more benefits. Especially since the government introduced the new Model Tenancy Agreement in 2021 which makes it easier for tenants with pets to find rented accommodation.
First of all, your property will be much more desirable and the pool of prospective tenants would widen, particularly those looking for long-term contracts. You are also able to charge a higher rent in order to cover the cost of any damage which may be caused.
Screening Tips for Tenants & Their Pets
If you still have some concerns, here are some ways you can ensure you’re making the right decision.
Request Details of the Pet
Similar to looking at a tenant reference, you could ask for a reference for your pet from the tenant. This could include veterinary records to see if the owner is responsible and the pet is well looked after; plus, ensure flea management is efficient.
Also, you could ask to meet the pet beforehand, so you can gain a clearer idea of how they behave, their temperament, and their relationship with the tenant. Sometimes this is much more effective than reading things from a document.
Include a Pet Clause in the Tenancy Agreement
Another good way to see if this tenant and their pet are a good fit for your property is if they agree to a pet clause in the tenancy agreement. Usually, this will state that any damage caused by the pet rather than the tenancy which be the tenant’s responsibility. Also, a deep end of tenancy clean may be required.
How to Make Your Rental Property Pet-Friendly
If you think you are ready to start letting your property to pet owners, you should make sure that your property is ready too.
Look At Flooring Alternatives
Anyone with a pet will know the risk they take by having carpet. The build-up of pet hair and the stains they cause make it a nightmare to try and clean. Of course, you can have professional carpet cleaners on hand to help you out any time, but it might be better to change your carpets to hardwood or tiled flooring instead. A wipe clean and an easy broom away from clean floors, maintenance is reduced for both you and the tenant.
Swap Light Coloured Furniture for Dark
If you are letting a furnished property and you currently have light coloured furniture, it would be best to switch this to dark coloured furniture instead. In the same way that carpet is in danger of pet hair and stains, light coloured furniture is too. The unpredictable UK weather guarantees mud will be brought in from outside, so dark coloured furniture will be more resilient to stains.
Ensure a Secured Garden Space
Rental properties with a garden space are much more preferred for tenants with pets, so if you are lucky enough to offer this sort of feature, make sure it is as safe as possible. This means putting up a fence that is high enough so no animals jump over, there are no dangerous flowers or plants in the garden, and offering other amenities such as a pet flap.
Other quick tips:
- Switch wallpaper to paint to avoid scuffs or rips
- Hide all wires to avoid any chewing occurring
- Remove expensive furnishings and decorative objects that could get damaged
- Invest in pet claw guards for door frames and skirting boards
Have Professional Cleaners on Standby for Your Pet-Friendly Property
For both landlords and tenants, it’s a good idea to have professional cleaners on standby. Whether it’s during the tenancy or at the end of tenancy, professional cleaners know how to tackle all pet stains and hair build-up, so you don’t have to worry.
Switching to a pet-friendly rental property is much less daunting when you have Pinpoint Homes to rely on. Contact us today to see how we can help you.
