Searching for a rental in the UK can feel overwhelming. Add pets into the picture and the process becomes even more challenging. Estate agents are the link between you and the landlord, so how you communicate with them directly impacts your chances of securing a pet-friendly home. Here are proven tips on communicating effectively with estate agents, based on nearly 30 years of property experience.
Be Upfront About Your Situation
When contacting an estate agent, clarity is key. Always provide the essentials straight away:
– Your rental budget. They will ask for salaries to check Affordability. If unsure use our Rent Affordability Calculator
– Desired move-in date
– Number of occupants (including pets)
Being transparent helps agents match you with the right properties faster. If you own pets, say so at the outset. Hiding pets rarely works and can cause problems later.
Use Multiple Ways to Contact Estate Agents
Don’t rely only on messaging through property portals like Rightmove or Zoopla. These enquiries often get overlooked. Call the local branch directly and ask for the negotiator handling the property. Many estate agents now use WhatsApp for quicker communication once rapport is built. A direct call or message increases your chances of getting a response.
Build a Strong Relationship with Your Estate Agent
Good relationships matter in property. Be polite, patient, and professional. If you make an agent’s job easier by being organised, they’re more likely to recommend you to landlords. Agents want to secure deals, so if you show that you’re serious and reliable, you stand out from other applicants.
Prepare Your Paperwork Before Viewings
One of the best tips for tenants is to have your documentation ready before you even view properties. Prepare:
– ID and proof of address
– Recent payslips or employment contract
– Landlord reference
– A Pet CV (landlords love seeing details of your pet’s behaviour and routine)
This level of preparation reassures estate agents and landlords that you’re a committed and responsible tenant.
Follow Up Without Being Pushy
Estate agents manage dozens of clients. A polite follow-up message keeps you on their radar without being overbearing. Persistence pays off, but always balance it with respect for their workload.
Stay Flexible With Property Choices
Not every rental will tick all your boxes. Sometimes you may need to compromise on features such as outside space or finish to secure a pet-friendly landlord. Be clear on your non-negotiables, such as budget, location, and pets. Remain open to alternatives. This flexibility helps agents present more viable options, such as unfurnished or taking a place a bit sooner.
Buildings With No-Pets Head Leases
There are a lot of building in the UK, where pets are not allowed. This is not about the landlord, it is the building management that says no to renting with pets.
Some concierges ‘turn a blind eye to pets’. Always double-check. Sometikmes the esatate agents don’t know. I have heard of people losing their desired property because nobody double-checked this very important point with larger blocks.
Hidden Pet Costs
With the newer Build To Rents buildings, a lot will charge an extra pet rent. This varies between £30-£70 per pet per month. If you have a few pets this can really add up. So always ask the question if you don’t know.
Keep Records of All Communication
Miscommunication is common in the rental process. Save WhatsApp chats, emails, and property details. Having written records protects you if there’s ever a dispute about what was promised regarding pets or terms.
Get the Pets Clause in Writing
Even if an estate agent tells you verbally that pets are allowed, make sure the tenancy agreement includes a pet clause. Without it in writing, you’re vulnerable if the landlord later changes their mind. Always double-check the agreement before signing to ensure your pets are protected legally.
Final Thought
Clear and professional communication with estate agents can make all the difference in securing a rental especially if you’re relocating with pets. By being upfront, organised, and approachable, you increase your chances of getting a landlord to say ‘yes.’
If you’re struggling to rent with pets, Pets Lets specialises in helping tenants navigate the UK rental market. Download our DIY Pet-Friendly Toolkit (100% of proceeds go to pet charities) or contact us directly at www.petslets.com for tailored advice.
I’m Russell Hunt, Founder of Pets Lets , a UK property consultancy specialising in pet-friendly rentals and set up the Relocating to the UK with Pets Facebook Group
With nearly 30 years’ experience in the London property market, I help clients from the UK and overseas find homes where both they and their pets are truly welcome.
