Why 10% of renters would pay more for a pet-friendly home
Want to attract more tenants for your UK rental property? Allow pets. According to research, renting to pet owners is financially beneficial to private landlords.
Research shows that renters view their homes as more than just a practical decision. In fact, 87% say where they live contributes to their mental wellbeing, underlining why factors like outdoor space and a lifestyle-friendly home environment, including being able to have pets are becoming increasingly important.
Outdoor space and renting with a pet are top rental features
In a OnePoll survey of 2,000 UK renters, 32% said access to a private garden or outdoor space is one of the most important features when choosing a property. 30% ranked being able to rent with a pet as a top priority.
Both features also emerged as major ‘non-negotiables’ when choosing a property. 29% said a pet ban would be a deal-breaker, and 25% said the same about not having a garden or outdoor space.
Renters will pay 10% more for a pet-friendly home
Also important for landlords to bear in mind, the research found that these lifestyle features can justify a premium. Renters said they would pay an average of 10% more for a pet-friendly home. And 26% said they would be willing to pay 5–10% more in rent. A further 13% said they were willing to pay 11–25% more.
This research confirms that renters are not just looking for a place to sleep, but homes that genuinely support their day-to-day life. This is shown in the 87% who say that where they live contributes to their mental wellbeing.
Two-thirds of renters rated their landlord or letting agent as favourable
The survey found that 85% of renters feel secure in their current tenancy. When landlords communicate clearly and look after their properties, it ensures stability for tenants and longer, smoother tenancies overall – which is good for all parties.
The study also painted a mostly positive picture of landlord-tenant relationships. 67%) of renters rated their landlord or letting agent as favourable, and 29% rated it very favourable.
Renters are put off by large rent increases and slow repairs
So what don’t tenants like? 55% said they don’t like unexpected or large rent increases, and 51% are put off by slow repairs to serious issues like damp or heating problems. Privacy and communication were key concerns, with 44% saying frequent unannounced visits or lack of privacy as a deal-breaker, and 38% citing poor communication or being difficult to contact as reasons to avoid or leave a property.
Asked how they like landlords to communicate with them, and 32% say email, 24% messaging apps, 19% phone calls and 10% tenant portals.
