Renting with pets in the UK is not easy and advanced planning is highly recommended.
There is the Renters Rights Bill which will become law in early to mid 2025, will make it a bit easier to rent with a cat or dog.
However, word of warning renting with a pet. The legislation will not cover buildings that say no to pets. If you are looking to rent in a block, make sure your pet is allowed and that a pets clause is in your tenancy agreement.
Landlords always find loopholes. No landlord likes to be ‘told’ what to do and with the many changes in rental and taxation laws with buy to let properties, many landlords are leaving the market or are ‘fed up’ and are ‘resisting’ change.
They will look for ways to say no to pets; reasons will be from the property is not suitable, I have a better offer from another party, they offered more money, can move in sooner, have less requirements or just prefer the other tenant profile.
Remember, the landlord is the estate agent’s client. They don’t want to lose the repeat business, especially if that landlord owns a property portfolio.
I hate to say it, but once you secure your pet friendly property, there is the 1 week holding deposit to pay ASAP to secure the property, followed by the referencing process . Here there is no middle ground, either it is very simple of it becomes ‘overly’ complicated and repetitive.
Referencing more complicated for people based and earning overseas. UK referencing companies are not very good at including revenues that are not in pounds sterling. I can say this from experience. This becomes even more complicated if you are overseas and self-employed. A contract of employment with salary and position will help a lot and will be asked for. Longevity with a company is also a bonus.
One thing to consider if you can, is a UK guarantor. If you have family or friends based in the UK who would be prepared to guarantee you, that will help a lot. A landlord is looking for a tenant who can afford to pay the rent, but if they lose their job etc, there is a financial back up.
Have your paperwork in order. I would suggest that you have this to hand, so when you find the right property, you can move quickly. The last thing you want is to lose out on a great property because you are still waiting on your employment reference, for example.
Renting with or without a pet, have the following in advance:
- Employment reference stating position and salary. If you have been with the company a long time, state number of years. Longevity is good.
- Landlord reference is possible, stating you have paid the rent on time and if with a pet, there has been no damage or issues.
- Click here to create a Pet CV . Cute images are important. A bit about your pets character, vaccinations etc. If you work from home, say so as your dog or cat will not be alone. Anything to show you are a responsible pet owner.
- Financial statements. Only provide if necessary. Show you have savings. Especially if you need to pay a few months up front.
If you’re relocating to the UK from the US or from anywhere in the world without your pet initially, using Trusted Housesitters can be an excellent and affordable way to establish a UK base while you decide where you’d like to settle.
I hope this information is helpful. If you’re relocating to the UK with your pets, feel free to join our informative Facebook group, “Relocating to the UK with your Pets”, for more guidance and support.
Russell Hunt is the founder of Petsletsrelocation.com , where he serves as a pet-friendly UK property specialist. He advises clients on renting and buying properties in and around London.
Russell Hunt, leading UK pet-friendly property specialist, advising clients on renting and buying properties in and around London, as well as other parts of the UK.
For more information, visit Pets Lets Relocation or click here to schedule a no-obligation call.
