Pets Need not be Only for Christmas in Rental Property

We’re known for being a nation of animal lovers. More than 43% of the population owns a pet of some sort. Yet landlords and lettings agents have often been less than welcoming when it comes to accommodating the patter of paws in a rental property.

But that’s all changing. NALS, The National Approved Letting Scheme, with nearly 2,000 accredited lettings offices has got right behind the ‘LETS FOR PETS(R)’ campaign launched by Dog’s Trust and is urging its licensed firms to help pet owners find a home in rented accommodation so that a new pet need not be only for Christmas.

These lettings agents are being encouraged to become ‘pet friendly’ and get tenants to understand that many landlords actually do welcome pets in their properties:

“We are a pet-friendly nation” says Caroline Pickering, NALS Chair. “And, it’s a recognised fact that nearly half of family households own pets. Therefore instead of excluding this sizeable part of the population, it makes sense to look for ways to help. Many NALS firms have been surprised to learn that a survey conducted by the Dog’s Trust clearly showed that more landlords are prepared to accept pets than agents’ generally realise”.

“Clearly there are some sensible guidelines to follow including setting out a clear ‘pet policy’ and taking an additional ‘pet deposit’ within the broader tenancy agreement. This is entirely reasonable practice and by taking a pragmatic approach, pets can be easily accommodated and it’s win-win all round”.

She concludes: “Naturally, we can understand that every pet has to be considered on its own merits – there are limits!”