DIY Tips

If you’re outside our core area of the East Midlands or just prefer to do things under your own steam, here’s our 5 Top Tips for Landlords & Tenants:

Landlords
1. Ask for information about the pet you’re being asked to allow in your property – is it neutered should be your first question, quickly followed by asking for veterinary confirmation of regular flea/worm treatment.
2. Is it an existing pet? Ask your prospective tenant for a previous landlord reference. And don’t be shy to follow it up!
3. Don’t think cats can’t live in flats – indoor cats are just that, and often for health/disability reasons. If you’re being asked about keeping an indoor cat, again, get the tenant to provide veterinary/rescue confirmation that the cat does indeed need to be kept indoors.
4. Refurbishing a flat before re-letting it? Go pet friendly: laminate floors and non-textured wall coverings all help minimise any potential pet damage.
5. Remember that the vast majority of pet owning tenants are responsible, and have animals that won’t cause you any problems.

Tenants
1. You need to demonstrate responsible pet ownership, so you first port of call is your vet. Ask them for a letter confirming your animal is neutered and in receipt of regular flea/ worm treatment. If they’re not neutered, GET THEM DONE!
2. Have you got a good relationship with your existing landlord? Ask them to provide a reference confirming they’ve never had any pet related issues during your tenancy.
3. Take pictures of your current accommodation, paying attention to carpets, soft furnishings (if not yours) and wall coverings to show there’s no pet damage.
4. Do you use a boarding kennels, grooming or other pet service? No harm in asking them for a reference saying the animal’s in good health and well looked after.
5. Don’t lose heart. It’s a numbers game, keep at it and you will find your new pet friendly home.

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