More rented homes needed for people with pets

Many landlords prefer not to accept tenants with pets, but those who are open minded about it can maximise their property’s rental potential by accessing a much wider choice of prospective tenants and thus ensuring they achieve the best possible rent for their property.

It is estimated that 43 per cent of the population currently own a pet and with so many landlords unwilling to accept pets, pet-friendly properties are extremely sought after and let very quickly.

Kathy Taylor, Leaders senior branch manager in Horsham, says: “Our advice to landlords who may want to consider letting to tenants with pets is to consider each one on a case by case basis, as every pet is different.

“You should limit the number and type of pet you will consider, depending on the size of your property and the circumstances of your tenant.

“For example, you would not want a large dog left alone in the property all day, but a small well-trained dog that is not left alone for long periods may be perfectly acceptable to you.

“For landlords willing to consider accepting pets, there are a number of very straightforward steps that can be taken to ensure that the tenancy runs as smoothly as possible and to minimise any risks.

“These include taking a higher deposit at the start of the tenancy and adding a detailed addendum to the tenancy agreement for added protection.

“The addendum indemnifies the landlord against any damage caused by a pet at the property and stipulates the property will be left clean and clear of any traces of animals at the end of the tenancy.

“It also stipulates that the tenant will not keep the pet for breeding purposes or allow the pet to cause a nuisance to neighbours and that any costs for cleaning or disinfesting the property will be met by the 
tenant.

“As with all tenancies, it is essential that a detailed inventory and schedule of condition is drawn up reflecting the condition of the property at the start of the tenancy so that if it is not returned at the end of the tenancy in the same condition, subject to fair wear and tear, the tenant’s deposit will cover any costs to the landlord.

“Responsible pet owners generally make responsible tenants and will often become good, long-term tenants.

“That’s because pet owners know how difficult it is to find rented accommodation that allows pets so they are more likely to stay longer than tenants with no pets.

“They are also more likely to treat their rented home responsibly as they won’t want to do anything to jeopardise their tenancy, knowing how difficult it would be to find somewhere else to rent.

“For more information about renting to tenants with pets you can visit www.letswithpets.org,uk or contact Leaders.

“Leaders are members of ARLA and SAFEAgent, and have more than 29 years experience specialising in residential lettings.

For advice you can trust on all aspects of renting or letting in Horsham please contact Leaders on 01403 217 585 or email [email protected]’’