Pet-Friendly Rentals: A Smart Move for Landlords

As pet legislation continues to evolve across Australia, NSW isn’t far behind. The conversation is shifting — and now is the perfect time to rethink your stance on renting to pet owners.

A cheerful dog relishes a warm cuddle, comfortably stretched out in its owner's embrace with a wide, playful grin.

Still on the fence? Here’s why welcoming four-legged tenants might be a smart business decision:

Widen Your Tenant Pool

Pet-friendly homes are in high demand. According to Animal Medicines Australia, 6.9 million households already own a pet — and over half of the rest would like to. The biggest roadblock? Lack of suitable housing. By opening your doors to pet owners, you’ll tap into a large and motivated segment of renters that many landlords overlook.

Lease Faster, Reduce Vacancy

While the market's strong right now, conditions can shift. In a slower market, pet-friendly properties often lease faster due to broader appeal. More applicants mean more choice — and more competition. That means better tenants, quicker lets, and fewer days sitting vacant.

Boost Your Return

Landlords who allow pets often command higher rents, especially if the property suits animal owners — think fenced yards, tiled floors, or nearby parks. A slight premium for pet-friendly features can translate into real dollars in your pocket.

Happier Tenants, Healthier Tenancies

Pets bring joy, structure, and a sense of home — which leads to happier tenants. And happy tenants tend to stay longer, care more, and cause fewer problems. That’s a win for everyone.

Transparency Beats Sneakiness

Let’s be honest — tenants sneak pets in all the time when there’s a strict ‘no pets’ policy. They hide them, shuffle them out during inspections, and keep you in the dark. When you allow pets upfront, you get the facts, not the runaround. You can ask for a pet application or resume, meet the furball, and set clear expectations.

Bottom line?

Renting to pet owners doesn’t mean lowering standards. It means adjusting your approach to meet market demand — while protecting your investment and keeping quality tenants long-term. Done right, it’s a professional, profitable, and forward-thinking move.