Pets and Rental Properties: What Do the Numbers Suggest?

by Jake Durtschi | Aug 5, 2025 | Investing in Rental Properties, Investment, Investor Guide, landlord, local, Local Info Idaho Falls, Marketing, Marketing Rental Properties, Owner Education, Pet Policy, property management, Property Management Education, Property Management Evaluation, real estate, Rental Owner | 0 comments

🏠 Want to Fill Your Rental Faster? Let Pets In.

Our Overview:

- Pet-friendly rentals can lease an average of 8 days faster, according to Zillow’s analysis of more than 11 million listings.
- Pet-friendly rentals received up to 12% more saves and 11% more shares, helping landlords attract prospective tenants.
- With nearly 60% of renters owning pets, allowing animals can make your rental property appealing to a broader audience.
- Routine inspections, appropriate pet fees, clear lease terms, and renters insurance with applicable pet liability coverage can help manage property risks.
- Balance tenant demand with property protection.

Zillow analyzed over 11 million listings—and the data speaks for itself:

- - Rentals that allow pets lease 8 days faster on average
  - They earn up to 12% more saves and 11% more shares
  - With nearly 60% of renters owning pets, demand is shifting rapidly

The numbers don’t lie: allowing pets isn’t just a kind gesture—it’s a smart business move backed by massive data. (Read Zillow’s full analysis here.)

Why This Works for Landlords

Pet-owners often:

- - Stay longer to avoid recurring moving stress.
  - Honor leases, appreciating accommodations made for their pets.
  - Take pride in property—many owners see their pet as family and treat the space accordingly, treating your property like home.

Tips to Protect Your Property from Pet Damage

Minimize risk with:

- 1. Routine inspections (e.g., quarterly walkthroughs) allow early detection of wear and tear.
  2. Pet deposits or monthly pet rent cover potential damage—customize these amounts based on pet size and type.
  3. Clear pet policies in leases—include rules on waste clean-up, barking, restricted areas, and breed/size limits.
  4. Require renters insurance that includes pet liability coverage to protect both parties.

By combining Zillow’s robust dataset with tenant screening and preventive measures, landlords can:

- - Maximize showings and listings engagement
  - Lease units faster—even by nearly a month in large markets
  - Mitigate risk through structured preventative policies

Pet-friendly = profit-friendly. Consider it your fastest (and furriest) leasing strategy.

Free Rental Assessment

Facebook

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Name(Required)

Email(Required)

Phone

What type of property do you have?(Required)

Where is the Property Located?(Required)

Tell us about the condition of the property(Required)

How long do you plan to own and rent out your property?(Required)

What is your biggest concern with your property?(Required)

How did you hear about us?(Required)

Preferred Contact Method(Required)

Pets and Rental Properties: What Do the Numbers Suggest?

Our Overview:

Why This Works for Landlords

Tips to Protect Your Property from Pet Damage

Categories