By Rachel Riga
There’s good news for tenants wanting to find a pet-friendly property, with most landlords more than willing to accept pets, at the right price.
The Consumer Insights Report on Tenants and Sharers conducted by realestate.com.au, revealed eight out of 10 landlords would accept pets if tenants paid slightly more rent.
Head of sales and operations Arthur Charlaftis said tenants looking for a pet-friendly property were encouraged to start a conversation with their landlord or property manager.
“Our research reveals that landlords and their property managers can be quite flexible when it comes to bringing your furry friend into the property, provided the tenant is responsible and willing to pay to have their pet there,” he said.
Mr Charlaftis said many people assumed their request for pets would be automatically rejected.
“A landlord’s first obligation is the maintenance of the property and some properties just aren’t compatible to share with animals,” he said.
Victoria Point tenant Ruth Hows said she would be willing to pay more rent if it meant keeping her family’s dog.
“I think you would have to because you wouldn’t get rid of the pet,” she said.
“Though it depends how much I would be willing to pay.”
Eudlo’s Faith Allcock-Webber agreed, saying her new puppy Coopa was part of the family.
Ms Allcock-Webber said searching for a pet-friendly property to suit her puppy proved difficult.
“When I was looking for somewhere we found it was a lot harder to find a pet-friendly place when we put that into the search criteria,” she said.
The Residential Tenancies Authority website said tenants should consider whether a property had enough room for a pet and whether it could cause damage.
McGrath Paddington new client consultant Rochelle Cramp said it was important for property managers and tenants to be open to discussions about pets.
“I think tenants should be able to have pets as long they are aware of the consequence if the pet causes damage,” she said.
Ms Cramp said her top tip for encouraging a property manager to consider allowing pets was proving your furry friend was well-behaved.
“Obviously going through the application progress is important,” she said.
“Even getting references from neighbours can help and we can also check with previous agents if there has been any pet damage.”
Top Tips for Renting with a Pet
- Ask the landlord or property manager up front if they would be willing to consider pets.
- Consider pest control may be required if pets are allowed. This should be stated in the tenancy agreement.
- For apartments, strata and communal laws may prohibit or restrict animals in a property, even if the landlord doesn’t mind.
- Remember your property search should be for you and your pet. Consider whether your furry friend would want to live in a one bedroom apartment with no backyard.
Check out the Pets welcoming owners home video!