In 2025, the rental housing market has become increasingly competitive, and tenants are demanding more flexibility and comfort. One of the most consistent requests from renters is the ability to keep pets. Despite this, many landlords still hesitate to allow animals in their properties. However, data, market trends, and real-world experience show that landlords who welcome pets can actually earn more money.
Rising Demand: Pet Owners Seek Housing
According to data from European real estate agencies, more than 40% of renters in major cities own at least one pet. In cities like Paris, Berlin, Barcelona, and Vienna, the number of pet-owning tenants continues to rise. This creates a vast market for pet-friendly housing.
Yet only around 10–15% of rental listings explicitly state that pets are allowed. As a result, tenants with cats, dogs, or other animals face limited options—and many are willing to pay a premium for suitable accommodations.
Financial Benefits for Landlords
1. Higher Rent Prices
Studies show that pet-friendly landlords can charge 10–25% more than the market average. Pet-owning tenants are often willing to pay extra for the comfort and assurance that their companion will be welcomed.
For example, in Madrid, the average monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment is around €900. A landlord who allows pets could easily charge €1,000–1,100. Over the course of a year, that means an extra €1,200–2,400 in rental income.
2. Longer Tenancy Periods
Tenants with pets tend to stay longer in rental properties because it’s more difficult for them to find suitable housing. This reduces turnover costs for landlords, including advertising, screening, and unit preparation.
According to UK-based rental experts, pet-owning tenants stay on average 20% longer than those without pets.
3. Reduced Vacancy Rates
Because pet-friendly listings are relatively scarce, they are often filled more quickly. This means landlords spend less time with empty units, improving overall occupancy and cash flow.
For instance, if a property remains vacant for even one month between tenants, a landlord could lose €900–1,200. By welcoming pet owners, landlords can significantly cut this downtime.
How Landlords Can Protect Themselves
Allowing pets does not mean landlords are giving up control. Several practical policies can mitigate the risks associated with animals in rental properties:
- Pet deposits: A refundable pet deposit (e.g., €300–500) helps cover potential damages.
- Animal restrictions: Limits on the size, breed, or number of pets (e.g., one cat or dogs under 15 kg).
- Pet agreements: A separate pet clause in the lease outlining responsibilities.
- Regular inspections: Periodic checks (every 6 months) to monitor property condition.
- Photo documentation: Before-and-after records of the unit’s condition.
These measures ensure peace of mind while accommodating responsible pet owners.
Case Studies
In Lyon, a landlord rented an apartment to a young couple with a dog and charged €980 instead of the standard €850. An extra deposit of €400 was collected. Over two years, the dog caused no damage, and the couple even performed minor cosmetic improvements. After they moved out, the apartment was rented again—this time to a tenant with a cat—for €1,050 per month.
In Warsaw, a property management firm introduced a “pet-friendly program” in 2023 across its 50+ rental units. Listings included a dedicated icon for pet acceptance. The result: a 30% faster occupancy rate, an 18% increase in average rent, and no measurable increase in property damage or complaints.
Common Risks and How to Manage Them
Landlords’ main concerns include:
- Property damage (scratches, stains, odors)
- Noise disturbances
- Allergens or sanitation issues
- Complaints from neighbors or HOA enforcement
These risks can be minimized if:
- The pet is well-behaved and trained
- Clear terms are stated in the lease
- The landlord documents the condition of the unit at move-in and move-out
Agencies often recommend using a detailed move-in checklist that pays special attention to floors, carpets, doors, and furniture.
Legal Trends in the EU
Some EU countries are taking legislative steps to support pet-friendly renting:
- In Germany, a 2022 court ruling stated that landlords cannot issue blanket bans on pets unless there are specific risks.
- In France, more standard lease agreements include clauses allowing pets under reasonable conditions.
- In the Netherlands, national discussions are underway to create a centralized pet-friendly housing registry.
This reflects a broader trend toward tenant rights and inclusive rental policies.
Conclusion
Pet-friendly rentals are no longer just a kind gesture—they’re a smart business move. With the growing number of renters who own pets, landlords who embrace this demographic enjoy:
- The ability to charge higher rent
- Longer-term, more stable tenants
- Reduced vacancy and turnover
When managed with appropriate policies and protections, the risks of allowing pets are low—and the financial rewards are high. In 2025, being pet-friendly isn’t just ethical—it’s profitable.
