Tenancy Agreement that allows for Pets
Tenancy agreements for pets are becoming increasingly popular as more and more landlords become aware of the benefits that allowing pets can bring. Not only is it a great way to attract new tenants, but it also provides an additional source of income in the form of pet deposits and pet rent. However, when deciding whether to allow pets or not there are certain things that landlords need to consider.
Download a Tenancy Agreement template that allows for Pets
As a Landlord why allow pets in properties?
Tenants with pets are often more reliable and willing to commit as they are aware of the difficulty of finding a pet friendly property. Tenants without pets may also have a higher risk of defaulting on the rent if their circumstances change. Tenants with pets can be very loyal, providing long term occupancy, which makes it easier for landlords to manage properties. Also, allowing tenants to keep pets in your rental property means that you can charge an additional pet deposit or pet rent which will increase income from the tenancy agreement.
Things to Consider when allowing Pets in a Rented Property
When considering whether to allow pets in your rental property there are certain things you should take into account such as local rules and regulations, size and number of animals allowed and any other specific requirements set out by the landlord. The Tenancy Agreement should include these clauses as it is important to remember that tenants are legally responsible for any damages caused by their pet.
The Tenancy Agreement should be clear about the requirements regarding pets
This must include clauses outlining any additional fees that may be applicable such as pet deposits, pet rent and breed or size restrictions. Tenants should also provide details of the type of pet they have including size, age and behaviour history so that landlords can make an informed decision about whether to accept a pet into the property or not. It's also important to clarify who will cover any costs associated with damage caused by pets such as carpet cleaning or repair work.
Pets can damage properties
Pets can do a lot of damage to properties, especially if they're not well-trained or if they're left alone for long periods of time. Chewing, scratching, and urinating are all common ways that pets can damage homes, and it's important to be aware of these risks before you bring a pet into your home.
Potential Pet Damage issues
Chewing on skirting boards, scratching doors and furniture, staining carpets, damaging lawns and gardens, bad smells, pet hair on furniture and carpets, and fleas are all things that can turn buyers away from your home.
Preparation is key when it comes to having a successful tenancy and this is particularly relevant when renting to pet owners. It’s therefore worth considering what kind of damage pets can afflict, as this will allow the landlord to include specific conditions in the tenancy agreement. It also focuses attention on common problem areas when conducting the inventory/check-in report and checkout report.
Download a Tenancy Agreement template that allows for Pets
Make sure that you include a term in the tenancy agreement that says it is okay to have pets.
This will say what the person renting your home is responsible for, like cleaning up after the pet, taking care of pests, and fixing things if the pet damages them.
You should include details about how many pets are allowed and what kinds of pets in the property description. This will help avoid problems later on. Having a specific clause in the contract about special circumstances will make it so there is less arguing about what the tenant is responsible for and whether deposit deductions are fair.
Get details about the pet in question before signing a Tenancy Agreement
It is okay to ask for more information about the pet before making a decision. You can ask if the tenant has a reference from a previous landlord that says the pet was good. If not, the tenant should be able to tell you things like what kind of pet it is, if it is house-trained, and if it has been spayed or neutered.
Download a Tenancy Agreement template that allows for Pets
It's important to discuss with your tenant how long their pet will be left home alone, as this may change when people return to work. You should also get the pet's name and emergency contact information.
Inventory Report specific to Pets
It is very important to have a report that inventory/check-in report when a tenant moves in and out. This will help to prevent any disputes about the deposit. The report should include how the condition of the property has changed since the last tenant.
Use the following checklist to make sure you don't miss anything important when recording inventory.
- Note the condition of each room in the property, including small details such as paintwork, flooring, carpets, doors, curtains and skirting boards. These are common problem areas for pets
- Include dated photographs to support your written notes.
Don't forget to document any smells you encounter while inspecting the property. This includes outside spaces. Be sure to take note of the condition of lawns, holes in fences or gardens, and whether or not the property has had a professional cleaning before tenants move in.
Download a Tenancy Agreement template that allows for Pets