Pet Problems – Renting

It may come as no surprise that renting as a pet owner can be incredibly difficult. Pet Insurance Australia (PIA) understands pet owners and their concerns when it comes to this seemingly impossible task.

“In the current renting market, it can be almost impossible to find the perfect place where our beloved cats and dogs are welcome,” states Nadia Crighton from Pet Insurance Australia.

With the launch of the new Pet Resume by Rent.com.au, the need for pet friendly accommodation is clearly on the rise.

Rent.com.au reports that only a mere 25% of their listings are specific to pet-friendly dwellings. The development of their Pet Resume is hoping to encourage owners to reconsider their property listings, particularly if the pet has detailed information.

“This is wonderful for the industry as many times property owners would consider allowing a pet if they knew the full background and behavioral tendencies of the animal,” says Crighton. “It’s basically allowing pet owners to showcase how responsible they are, and how good their pet is.”

Type of information on the Pet Resume include:

• Vaccination information
• Type of cat/ dog
• Registration papers
• Training information
• Plus, any additional notes about your dog and why they are so good including housetraining, exercise, and behaviour.

“Pet Insurance Australia applauds Rent.com.au for coming up with such a wonderful idea which will hopefully see many more pets welcomed in rented homes.”

With a little planning, and research, you and your pets can be happy and living in the home of your dreams.

1. Get searching. Call your local real estate and ask to be notified of pet-friendly rentals in your area. Get to know your estate agents, having someone on your side that works in the industry is a HUGE advantage.
2. Make sure your pet is trained. A well-mannered pet is vital. If you are negotiating to allow your pet in the home, make sure you have all the documents/ certificates ready.
3. References. Have them ready from your previous pet-friendly dwellings and people who know your pets.
4. Make a list of all the homes you wish to view. If you can find one which is advertised as a pet-friendly home, great. If not …then be prepared to negotiate. This could include an increase in rent and more routine inspections. An agreement that you will fix any damage to carpets, lawns etc.
5. Make your own pet resume on Rent.com.au for your animal.

Landlords

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, 2.16 million renting families are pet owners. So, there are certainly many pet-friendly homes available for rent. However, they may not be advertised.

“Many landlords are pet owners too, and understand that a companion animal is an important part of the home,” states Crighton. “However, the fact remains that some rental owners have had terrible experiences with pets. From noise problems, damage, and smell; so, you need to prove that your pet does not fall into this category.”

Ensuring that your pet is well mannered, easy to love and house-trained is very important.

“If you have doubts, call in the professionals! Get your dog up-to-scratch with some training and talk to a behaviourist about your pet woes.”

It has been noted by many in the real-estate industry that landlords and property managers can be very flexible when it comes to renting with pets.

TOP TIPS

• Be prepared. Have all the information on hand that will prove your pet is a good tenant.
• Get to know your local agent. Get them onside. Introduce them to your well-mannered, house-trained pet.
• Keep up-to-date with your pet care routine. Think fleas, worms, grooming, and training. Have evidence of this. Sell yourself as a responsible pet owner.
• For apartments …get to know what the body corporate rules and regulations are.
• Have room to move on the price that you want to pay.
• TIME. Give yourself ample time to find a new home.
• Word of mouth. Talk to your friends and family. They may know a property manager, or a home coming up for rent. Put your feelers out well in advance for your dream rental property.

Nadia Crighton

Nadia Crighton is a renowned and accomplished professional in the fields of Journalism, Public Relations, and Writing, with an extensive career spanning over 25 years, 20 of which have been dedicated to promoting the health and well-being of pets.

We offer award-winning* pet insurance policies to protect your furry friend’s health and wellbeing. Get a quote today and give your pets the care they deserve.