Top tips for pet owners looking for a property to let

With over half of the UK’s population owning a pet and the current rental market being subject to a shortage of good rental properties, it pays to be prepared and honest when looking for a pet-friendly property. Landlords often have concerns over allowing pet owners into their property, so to help you be successful in your search for your next home, here are a few tips you can follow:

1. Be honest.

   It’s never advisable to hide your pet from your landlord or letting agency. Doing so may result in your tenancy being ended. Even if a property says no pets, some landlords may consider pet owners if you come across as the right tenant.

2. Don’t leave it to the last minute.

   Give yourself plenty of time to find a pet-friendly home and begin searching at least 8 weeks before you plan to move out of your current home.

3. Be flexible with your search criteria.

   Being as flexible as you can with your search criteria will help increase your chances of finding a pet-friendly home. See our top tips for tenants to help you with your search.

4. Offer a higher deposit.

   One of the main reasons why landlords are concerned about allowing pets in their property is because pets could cause damage to their property and furnishings.  By offering a higher deposit, you will reassure the landlord that should this occur, it will be covered.

5. Offer a professional clean at the end of your tenancy.

   Some landlord’s worry that pets will lead to fleas, pet hair and dirty carpets at their property. Offering a non-refundable ‘pet payment’ to pay for a professional clean when you move out will help put any landlord’s mind at ease.

If you’re looking for a pet-friendly property, please do not hesitate to get in contact to provide us with your search criteria so that if a pet-friendly property comes on the market, we’ll get in contact with you. Are you a landlord? We can offer you market advice and a free, no obligation valuation.