"With the new legislation outlining more rights for renters, now is the time for other landlords to seriously consider making their accommodation pet-friendly and getting ahead of the curve, in order to meet the needs of the next generation of renters"
- Ryan Prince - UNCLE
A new survey from luxury rental company, UNCLE, showcases what matters most to Gen Z renters, revealing that finding pet-friendly accommodation has become the top priority.
For young renters, finding a pet-friendly home has become a top priority and with pets playing such a huge role in their lives, this generation is reshaping the rental market to make sure their furry friends feel right at home.
With the new Labour government advancing the Renters’ Rights Bill, designed to make it easier for tenants to rent with pets, the importance of finding homes that welcome furry friends has never been clearer.
With this in mind, UNCLE surveyed the nation to reveal what today's renters are really looking for and the findings are surprising.
For those aged 18-24, pet-friendly options (26%) ranked higher than:
Proximity to work (24%)
Good security (21%)
Convenient transport links (18%)
Affordable rent (16%)
Living near the city centre (16%)
Similarly, Gen X actually feel the same, as 26% also prioritise pet-friendly homes over good security options (23%). Nevertheless, cost remained a priority for Gen X, more so than their furry friends, as 46% found low rental costs more important instead.
For many Gen Z renters, pets have become more than just companions, they’re vital sources of comfort and emotional well-being, especially when navigating the challenges of renting.
According to UNCLE’s research, half of young renters report feeling lonely and in these moments, having a pet can transform a house into a home. Whether it’s the joy of coming home to a wagging tail or the soothing presence of a purring cat, pets provide a deep sense of companionship that helps ease the isolation many feel.
But it’s not just about having a furry friend to keep them company. Studies have consistently shown that pets can work wonders for mental health. For Gen Z renters, this translates into lower stress levels, reduced anxiety, and improved self-confidence. For those who own dogs, there’s the added benefit of regular walks, which promote physical health and help establish routines that bring structure to daily life.
Pets offer more than just affection, they actively contribute to their owners’ overall well-being. Therefore, it’s no surprise that the Gen Z generation is prioritising pet-friendly homes, as they recognise how much happier and healthier life can be with a loyal animal by their side.
Ryan Prince, Founder of UNCLE, commented: “Pets are very much a member of the family, and living with animals has considerable benefits to both our mental and physical health. Here at UNCLE, we understand how important living with your furry companion is, which is why we offer a selection of pet-friendly apartments throughout our buildings.
“With the new legislation outlining more rights for renters, now is the time for other landlords to seriously consider making their accommodation pet-friendly and getting ahead of the curve, in order to meet the needs of the next generation of renters.”
