Don’t make a dogs dinner out of letting your property to a pet lover with these simple tips.
Did you know that it is estimated that there are 32 million dogs kept as pets across the world? This is before you even start to consider other domestic pets such as cats, rabbits, hamsters or even snakes! As a pet ownership increases your chances of having a tenant with a pet is higher. But what approach should you take to accommodating your tenant’s furry friends?
1. Is it permitted?
First and foremost, if you are renting out a unit in a condominium are pets allowed in the building? Check with the building’s regulations and also your own insurance as this may quickly answer your question.
2. What pet is it?
A husky dog is going to cause more wear and tear than a hamster. Find out what the pet is and how many there are. A small domestic dog that is taken out for walks regularly throughout the day is unlikely to cause any problems.
3. Seek a prior reference.
Unless the pet is brand new addition to the family it is likely that the tenant was renting elsewhere with a pet. Check with the tenant and ask for their previous landlord or managing agents details to follow up a reference. Ask if the said pet ever caused any problems, disturbance to other neighbours or if it damaged the property in any way.
4. Is your property furnished or unfurnished?
In some cases animal odour can linger for a long time after the pet has moved out. The smell usually clings to soft furnishings that will need to be professionally cleaned once the tenant has vacated. There is less risk when letting an unfurnished property, but it is worth noting that some cat owners have their cat’s claws removed to minimise any damage too.
5. Request a bigger deposit.
In some cases you should be able to request a bigger deposit for a tenant who is moving in with pets. This is more to provide security for yourself in case any damage is caused by the animal.
6. Additional clauses.
It is advisable to get an additional clause in the tenancy agreement stating that any wear caused by the pet is not classes as fair wear and tear. And that any cost relating to damage can be deducted from the deposit. Plus make sure it is clear that the tenant has to get the property professionally cleaned at the termination of the tenancy.
7. Comprehensive inventory.
Finally make sure that you have a comprehensive inventory of the condition of the property and its items. Take photos as evidence and ensure that the tenant agrees to the content of the inventory in writing.
