Tim Bannister, director of property data at Rightmove, said: “The rise in pet ownership during the lockdown periods has been well documented, and we’re seeing this translate to the rental market."
Demand from tenants looking for pet-friendly properties has increased by 120% over the past year, compared to total demand from tenants being up by 13%, according to Rightmove.
Homes with a balcony saw the second biggest rise in demand, up by 70%, while the need for parking was found to be up by 48%, gardens by 39% and properties with all bills included by 38%.
Tim Bannister, director of property data at Rightmove, said: “The rise in pet ownership during the lockdown periods has been well documented, and we’re seeing this translate to the rental market.
"Becoming a pet owner is a long-term commitment, so what’s really interesting to consider is the impact this could have on the rental market in the future, and it’s a signal to landlords that if they were to consider allowing a well-behaved pet then it may open them up to a bigger pool of potential tenants.”
