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Renting With Pets
Sadly, around 30% of dogs and cats that are surrendered to animal shelters are by owners who aren’t able to find accommodation that allows their pet.
Responsible pet owners can make very good tenants; the kind that sign long term leases and take good care of their homes.
A landlord, strata or community corporation cannot prevent a tenant with a disability from using an assistance dog or therapeutic animal. Contact the Equal Opportunity Commission of South Australia on 8207 1977 or the Australian Human Rights Commission on 1300 656 419 for more information.
Benefits of pet-friendly rentals
- Properties are usually rented out faster, reducing advertising costs
- Attract long term tenants
- A dog’s presence can prevent vandalism and break-ins which cause property damage
- Pets provide companionship and comfort which contribute to the tenant’s wellbeing
- Reduce the number of animals euthanised in South Australia
Securing pet-friendly rentals
Tenants should let a prospective landlord know they’re a responsible pet owner and will be a good tenant. There are a few ways you can achieve that.
- Be prepared: read the Renting with pets guide for tenants fact sheet.
- Provide potential landlords a copy of the Renting with pets guide for landlords and managing agents fact sheet.
- Provide a reference from a previous landlord for you and your pet.
- Offer information about your pet in terms of their nature, registration and vaccinations – consider a resume.
Further information
- A guide for landlords and managing agents
- A guide for tenants
- Example pet application/resume
- Example pet agreement
For information on the rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants visit the South Australian Government portal or phone Consumer and Business Services on 131 882. For details on strata and community titles contact the Legal Services Commission on 1300 366 424.
The renting with pets initiative was developed by the Department of Environment, Water and Natural Resources; Dog and Cat Management Board; Consumer and Business Services; Housing SA; and Office for Women on a 2015 Citizens' Jury recommendation to reduce unwanted dogs and cats.