A Guide to Renting with Pets

We consider ourselves a pro pet agency at The Good Estate Agent. We want you to feel at home in your property and believe that pets help make a house a home. But we also understand how much time and money our landlords invest in their properties. So can we find a balance?

Here's our top tips for finding a rental property for the entire family, pets included.

Be Flexible

Expand your search criteria when looking for a new home. Consider widening your search area, or perhaps considering a different type of property. The wider you cast your net you'll find that more possibilities will present themselves.

** References**

Can you demonstrate your furry friend is impeccably well behaved? Will your current landlord include confirmation that your pet has caused no damage to their property during your tenancy in your reference? In just the same way that a landlord will be asked to provide you, as their tenant a reference, you could also request that they include your pet within the reference too.

** Deposits**

While you'll be expected to pay a deposit when you rent a new home, having a furry friend in tow could mean you'll be expected to pay a higher deposit to allow for any damages the pet may cause. If this isn't something advertised within the rental listing why not ask?

** Cleaning**

When it comes to end of tenancy cleaning you need to return the property in the same state of cleanliness as you received it. Why not offer your potential landlord the assurance of a full professional clean of the property upon moving out?

** Honesty is the Best Policy**

Springing a pet on your landlord when you've already moved into the property could put you in breach of your contract, so always be upfront so as not to make the landlord feel railroaded into allowing a pet when they might not want to.

** Get it in Writing**

If you do find a landlord who will allow you to have a pet in the property, ensure it's written down within your contract so there are no misunderstandings. If your contract states 'small pet' for example, this does not mean you are allowed to keep a dog in the property. Always ask for clarification if you're unsure.

As you can see, with a little forward planning, honesty and perhaps a slightly larger deposit, you and your family pet have every chance of finding the perfect new home.