Why landlords should be pet-friendly

With growing demand for rentals in Auckland, rreal estate and property management companies are encouraging more landlords to go pet friendly. Photo: Warren Buckland.

For many Aucklanders pets are part of the family, but according to Barfoot & Thompson data only around 14 percent of Auckland rental properties currently cater to families with a furry member.

With growing demand for rentals in Auckland, the real estate and property management company is now working to encourage more landlords to go pet friendly.

"Demand amongst pet owners is obviously high, but there are also a number of benefits to being a pet-friendly landlord," says Property Management Operations Manager Helen Hodgson.

Barfoot & Thompson data shows pet-friendly rentals are receiving an average of $20.49 more per week than that of their 'no pets' policy neighbours.

"Tenants with pets are often happy to pay a little more for a good rental home that can accommodate their pets' needs, and landlords can enjoy that little more in their bank account each week. It's a win-win."

Data also shows that Auckland tenants with pets stay in a property an average 7 months longer than tenants without pets.

"Many tenants with pets know how hard it is to find a pet-friendly property, and they know they're onto a good thing when they find one, so they stay longer. Reducing tenant turnover also saves on costs associated with moving, for both the tenants and landlords."

"To put it simply, the amount of Aucklanders with pets who rent is far greater than that of rental properties that allow pets, and that's a predicament that we're keen to help balance out."

Tips for landlords looking to go pet friendly

Think about what your rental property can manage:
The size of your property will help you decide what sort of pets you should accept. It's best to consider what fencing your property has and whether the outdoor area is appropriate for larger pets.

¬Add a Pet Addendum to the Tenancy Agreement:
Consult your Property Manager to determine a fair Pet Addendum. This ensures the landlord and tenants are clear and agree on any conditions surrounding the pet. This addendum should stipulate the expectations from the tenants in relation to pets, and responsibility for pet-related damage and which types of pets are allowed are all points to consider. Depending on your property it might also be worth negotiating a special carpet cleaning requirement, safeguarding your investment for future tenants.

Take maximum bond:
Equivalent to 4 weeks rent, taking the maximum bond helps offset any risk associated with pet-friendly rentals. The maximum bond is a safeguard to help cover any repairs needed in the unlikely event that there is damage to the property.

Always reference check:
Barfoot & Thompson have a rigorous tenant selection process, which your Property Manager will complete on your behalf. If the tenant has been allowed pets at a previous rental, your Property Manager will be able to ask their referee suitable questions around this.

Tips for tenants with pets

Make sure the property is suitable for your pet:
The sort of pet you have will help narrow down what to look for in a rental property. Perimeter fencing, backyard space and indoor to outdoor access may be important.

Carry relevant pet information when meeting landlords/Property Managers:
This will help communicate that you have thought through the responsibilities of being a tenant with a pet. A photo of the pet, information on its breed, size, personality traits, health, training and proof of registration should all be included. Previous landlords or neighbours who can confirm good behavior also goes a long way.

Maintain open communication with your landlord:
As above, including a Pet Addendum in your Tenancy Agreement will ensure both landlord and tenant are clear and agree on any conditions surrounding the pet.

Keep the neighbours happy:
Always resolve any problems concerning your pets with your neighbours as soon as possible. If there is a misunderstanding about a pet's behavior, be sure to politely explain the situation to the neighbour as well as the landlord. If the complaint is valid, be sure to seek the help of a professional.