It’s only natural to have a concern about whether your tenant has introduced a pet into your property.
A simple ‘no’ when it comes to a pet request may seem simple enough, but there’s plenty you can do as the homeowner that will prepare your property for little paws.
Flooring… Look for durable flooring to install in your property. Pets – dogs, in particular – can unintentionally scratch floors, so consider what type of flooring will best withstand that. There’s plenty of options on the market. Easy maintenance is key.
Gardens… Pets love a yard to run and sniff around in, but some plants can be dangerous to them. It may be worthwhile considering what plants are on your property and if these may be a hazard for your furry tenants. If you’re not eager to remove them completely, it may be courteous to advise future tenants of where they are, perhaps sectioning the area off completely.
Lawns… Unfortunately, regardless of pets or not, lawns don’t always fair well throughout a tenancy. Your tenant isn’t always to blame for this – the weather plays a big part too – but sometimes animals can wear it down a little more than you may like. If you’re concerned about how your lawn will stand up to pets, ensure maintenance is included in the lease.
Fences… Outdoor pets will need to be contained, so if you’re marketing your property with pet owners in mind, ensure your fences are in good condition to assist tenants with pet management. Err on the side of caution if a fence or gate is looking a little worse for wear. If they’re not up to scratch, the chances are tenants might be in contact in the not-too-distant future.
It’s okay to set limits. While you may market your property as pet friendly, it may simply not be suitable for all types of pets. Consider what size or type of animal you’re comfortable with in your property, and whether the property is suitable for that type of animal. Always include details, including responsibilities, in the lease and ensure the property’s condition is thoroughly documented at the beginning of the lease.
We Aussies sure love our pets! Considering many households across Australia have a furry companion, offering not only a pet-friendly property but one that has considered a pet-friendly lifestyle will open up the tenant pool for some potentially great tenants – both two and four-legged.