Renting a house with pets......

[Bossybritches22]

Anyone done it without too much trouble?

I've been looking at renting a house later in the year when I sell my current house (long story ) but having a quick look at whats around it seems most suitable places say no pets.

We have 1 human teen, 1 Goldie & 2 black cats.

I am happy to offer an additional clause to the tenancy saying I will put right any damage (unlikely ) and pay for a thorough clean when we leave ( hairs being more the problem possibly!) if that reassures landlords.


I can totally understand anyone NOT wanting pet tenants in their investment/ home as there are some thoughtless owners out there, but how can I convince a landlord I'm not one of them?!

Ay advice welcome-thanks.

[SpicyPear]

Have you seen this website run by the Dogs Trust?

Hope you can find somewhere suitable for your brood.

[Bossybritches22]

Thanks Spicy I did , am armed with names of pet friendly agents so we shall see!

Have also discovered there is a agency that deals soley in letting properties, not as part of an estate agents IYSWIM, in the town I am aiming for so will go to them first I think.

Sods law there were LOADS of properties to rent when I first looked back in the autumn. Now I'm actually starting to look again there are only 2 or 3! Hopefully in the spring the market will ease up a bit.

[ruledbyheart]

I thought I'd really struggle trying to rent with my two dogs but actually it was quite easy, although we offered to pay an extra, deposit against damage and have it in our contract that we would have all carpets professionally cleaned on departure.
Depends on the individual landlord/lady most of the time not the agent.

[Bossybritches22]

Thanks ruled yes I guess its down to the landlord ultimately, but have to sweet talk the agent first to get them to ask!

Good to know its worked out for someone else-what types of dogs do you have if you don't mind me asking?

[topbannana]

We are in the process at the moment
AFAIK many listings will say "no pets" but may consider a cat or small dog if approached properly (no help with a goldie and 2 cats though!) I think you are best to approach the agent honestly and see what they say with regards to properties on their books and acknowledge that your choices will be limited. Local to us there are a couple of agents that seem to specialise in the more rural properties and seem to have several on their books, those who deal mostly with flats, town centre properties etc have fewer. A LL is also more likely to agree if you are interested in a longer term let, if that is the case then make sure everybody is aware of this.
I have my brood on a Pet Health Plan through the vets. Basically we pay a fixed amount every month and for that we get all our vaccinations, flea and worm treatment and a 6 monthly health check. This was quite helpful to brandish at the agents as proof we were responsible owners and the house was not about to be infested with fleas. Also offer to have the carpets professionally cleaned on departure, offer to keep pets from upstairs areas (if appropriate) undertake to not leave the dog alone with free rein of the house (shut in kitchen, crated etc) take out insurance against damage etc. Basically imagine what concerns the LL about having your animals in their house and think of ways to address that. An increased deposit is also a good thing to offer IME :o
It may also be worth looking for private lets as you tend to be in direct contact with the LL from the outset.
Good luck!