Being a responsible tenant with a pet
Renting with pets:
A responsible approach.
Renting a property with a pet can be a wonderful experience, but it’s important to be a responsible tenant to ensure a harmonious living environment and a smooth tenancy. Suzy Hershman, Head of Dispute Resolution at mydeposits, shares her expert insights on how to navigate renting with a furry friend.
Permission and preparation:
Before bringing a pet into your rental property, it’s crucial to obtain written permission from your landlord. Ideally, this permission should be documented in your tenancy agreement. Keep in mind that if your landlord agrees to your pet, you might be responsible for certain reasonable extra costs at the end of the tenancy.
Additional costs and responsibilities:
Suzy Hershman provides valuable advice on being prepared for extra costs associated with renting with a pet:
- Additional damage responsibility: You might need to sign an additional clause accepting responsibility for any extra damage caused by your pet. This can be done at any point during the tenancy, depending on when you introduce the pet to the property.
- Higher deposit: Landlords often require a higher deposit for tenants with pets. This acknowledges the potential for increased wear and tear or damage.
- Specialist cleaning agreement: Signing an agreement for specialist cleaning at the end of the tenancy might be necessary, especially if your pet has left any traces behind.
- Non-refundable payment: There could be a separate non-refundable payment for cleaning or fumigation/de-infestation that may be required after the tenancy. Pest issues associated with animals might not become apparent immediately, so it’s fair for the tenant to cover these costs.
Minimizing costs:
To minimize potential costs, here are some responsible practices to follow:
- Act responsibly during the tenancy
- Maintain the property and your pet’s health
- Be aware of the condition of the property at the start of the tenancy, as that’s the standard you’ll need to return it to at the end
Avoiding issues:
Suzy Hershman advises on what not to do when renting with a pet:
- Sneaking a pet in: Always inform your landlord about having a pet; sneaking one in could lead to tenancy termination.
- Clean up after your pet: Regularly clean up any mess your pet makes in the property, gardens, or public areas.
- Avoid nuisance: Ensure your pet doesn’t cause a nuisance to neighbours, especially in terms of noise.
Remember, being a responsible tenant when renting with a pet ensures a positive renting experience for both you and your neighbors. Follow these tips to foster a respectful and harmonious living environment for everyone involved.