As more tenants seek rental homes that welcome their furry friends, landlords in New South Wales may soon face changes to current pet regulations. While landlords in NSW can still choose whether or not to allow pets, other states like Queensland, Victoria, and South Australia have already made it mandatory in most cases. With similar changes likely coming to NSW, it’s smart for property investors to start preparing. At Mclaws Property, we’re helping landlords get ready to handle this transition smoothly.
The Changing Norm on Pets in Rental Properties
Right now, landlords in New South Wales can decide whether to permit pets in their rental homes. However, across the country, the laws are changing. In Queensland, South Australia, and Victoria, landlords are now required to allow pets unless there are special circumstances. New South Wales could soon see similar rules, which means landlords may no longer have the option to refuse pets.
To be at the forefront of these potential changes, it’s important to start thinking about how your property can accommodate pets. Landlords should be proactive about preparing their properties for future changes in legislation. Pet-friendly rentals can attract responsible tenants, but it’s also important to take steps to protect your investment.
Why Pet-Friendly Rentals Are on the Rise
The demand for pet-friendly rentals has surged in recent years, and it’s not hard to understand why. More than 60% of Australian households have a pet, and tenants are increasingly looking for homes that will allow their pets to live with them. For landlords, opening up properties to pets can be an advantage.
By allowing pets, you can widen your tenant pool and make your property more attractive in a competitive market. Many tenants are willing to pay more for a home where their pets are welcome. Plus, properties that allow pets tend to have longer leases, which can lead to fewer vacancies.
Pet-Proofing Your Investment Property
While allowing pets can make your property more appealing, it’s also important to protect your investment. Pet-proofing your rental is a sensible step that can help prevent damage while allowing tenants to keep pets.
Think about installing durable, pet-friendly materials. Hard flooring like tiles or timber is easier to clean and less likely to be damaged than carpets. Another useful upgrade is secure fencing around outdoor areas, which helps ensure the safety of pets and reduces the risk of damage to the property.
At Mclaws Property, we encourage landlords to gradually make their properties more pet-friendly. Small improvements over time, like upgrading flooring or adding fencing, can help maintain the value of your property. You don’t have to make huge changes all at once, but practical steps can help ensure your property stays in good condition.
Landlord Insurance and Pet Damage
If you decide to allow pets in your rental property, it’s essential to review your landlord insurance. Not all policies cover pet-related damage, and this could be problematic if anything goes wrong. Make sure your insurance policy includes protection against pet-related incidents, so you’re not caught off-guard by unexpected expenses.
Landlords are encouraged to check their insurance policy as some policies may not cover pet damage.
The NSW Government also reminds landlords that they “cannot ask for a higher rental bond, a separate ‘pet bond’ or for a tenant to pay a pet deposit because they have a pet.”
The Importance of a Good Property Manager
A reliable property manager is important when it comes to managing pets in rentals. They will carefully screen tenants, including checking their rental history with pets, so you know your property is in good hands.
At Mclaws Property, we take tenant screening seriously. We look at rental history, previous management of pets, and ensure all applicants meet our high standards. This way, even if new legislation requires you to accept pets, you can feel confident that your property is well looked after.
Preparing for the Future
With changes to pet regulations likely in NSW, it’s a good idea to start thinking about how you’ll handle pets in your rental property. Whether you’re ready to welcome pets or just want to protect your investment, Mclaws Property is here to assist you especially anticipated changes in legislation.
Contact us today to discuss how we can help prepare your investment property for the future.