In a ground breaking study conducted by Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, it has been revealed that landlords may be overlooking the financial advantages of allowing pets in their properties. The report challenges common misconceptions about pets causing damages and highlights the positive impact of pet-friendly rentals on both landlords and tenants.
Data collected from over 2,000 private landlords and 1,000 private renters unveils compelling statistics. Astonishingly, 76% of landlords reported no damage caused by dogs or cats in their rental properties, dispelling the notion that pets are inherently destructive.
Contrary to popular belief, the average reported cost of pet-related damage stood at a modest £300 per tenancy, significantly lower than the £775 reported for non-pet-related damages caused by tenants without pets. These findings underscore the financial viability of accommodating furry companions.
Moreover, the report highlights the longevity of tenancies involving pet owners. A substantial 50% of renters with pets stayed in their accommodations for more than three years, compared to only 31% of non-pet-owning renters. Battersea Dogs and Cats Homes assert that these results signify both financial and social advantages for landlords, fostering longer and more stable tenancies.
Ben Parker, Public Affairs Manager at Battersea, emphasized the importance of dispelling prevailing myths about pets causing damages in the private rental sector. He stated, “This first-of-its-kind report is a great help in dispelling the myths on pets and damages in the private rental sector.”
Parker also addressed the potential impact of the Renters Reform Bill, expressing optimism about its potential to allow more people to enjoy pet ownership while ensuring landlords and their properties remain protected. However, he noted concerns about the bill’s progress and emphasized the need for additional efforts to create a more equitable rental sector for both pets and people.
The report further sheds light on the vital role pet ownership plays in individuals’ physical and mental health. A notable 29% of renters without pets expressed a willingness to consider pet ownership in the future for their well-being if legislation supporting it were in place.
As the Renters Reform Bill navigates through Parliament, Battersea Dogs and Cats Home looks forward to continued collaboration with the Housing department and the wider property sector, advocating for a more inclusive and balanced rental sector for both pets and people.