Pet-friendly tenancies are increasingly the norm, and the deposit conversations that follow are getting harder. Building the defensible position starts at the viewing, not at the check-out.
Document the pet at the start
Get details of the animal in writing — species, breed, age, vaccination history. Include them in the tenancy file.
Specific clauses in the agreement
A pet clause that names the responsibilities (professional carpet cleaning at end of tenancy, repair of any damage caused) gives both sides something to point to later.
Inspection notes that mention the pet
During mid-term inspections, note whether the pet appears to be living calmly with the property. Any early signs of scratching, soiling or damage go in the report immediately, not at the end.
Treat pets as a structured risk to manage from day one and the file practically writes itself.
