Calls to protect rights of tenants with animals
Amid the current cost-of-living crisis and housing crisis, renters across Australia and New Zealand are finding it harder to secure homes to rent - but it’s even harder for renters with pets.
In parts of Australia, landlords are legally protected if they refuse applications from tenants with companion animals, while New Zealand rentals can still refuse to have pets as well.
Dr Zoei Sutton, an academic at Flinders University in South Australia, conducted a study involving in-depth interviews with tenants and stakeholders, including landlords, and found that many were struggling to obtain a rental when they had pets.
“My study shows Australian landlords and property managers are particularly reluctant to house cats, as they’re seen as leaving allergy hazards or the need for deep cleaning of carpets. Owners of bigger dogs and certain breeds can also have a harder time finding housing,” she said.
“And while we’re starting to see legislative shifts in Victoria and NSW, legislation to protect pet owners has been defeated in South Australia.”
During the interviews, Dr Sutton also uncovered several strategies renters could use to improve their chances of success, including preparing pet ‘resumes’ for agents and landlords.
“Both tenants and stakeholders agreed that there needs to be an understanding that rental houses are homes. This means working with both landlords and tenants to make sure everyone has a clear understanding of what fair ‘wear and tear’ is,” she added.
While interviewing tenants, landlords, real estate agents, and emergency housing organisations in SA, she heard multiple stories of renters experiencing a “constant source of worry” while renting.
“One tenant reported finding just ten potential properties listed as pet friendly while another family found only two within their price range. Some tenants are being asked to pay higher rent to secure a house,” Dr Sutton said.
“Multiple participants reported that there was a bidding war for houses with some tenants offering 3 or 6 months rent in advance, just to secure a house.
“One family had fallen through the damaged floor of their house multiple times but were reluctant to report the landlord’s failure to maintain the home because this might result in a bad reference when they next had to move.”
“It’s a constant source of worry, knowing that your lease might not be renewed or your house might be sold and you’ll have to try to find something again.”
Meanwhile, New Zealand journalist Charlotte Muru-Lanning reported in September that 14 percent of rentals available across the country were listed as “pets OK”, despite nearly half of New Zealand households.
“We need more protections for tenants so they can report unfair housing conditions without jeopardising future housing,” Sutton said.
“Animals need to be able to use the home too, and there are small things you can do to minimise any potential damage.
“Property managers have a key role in educating landlords and tenants to ensure everyone is happy and has reasonable expectations.”
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