As we round out the 2023-24 financial year, you might move your focus to plans for next financial year and how to make the most out of your property when it comes to tax time. A taxable expense is still an expense, so to make the most of any property enhancements, consider the extent to which you and your property will benefit from it. States and territories across Australia now have reforms in place, or on their way, that will make it more difficult for landlords to deny pets in their properties. While there are many benefits to having pets in properties (i.e. links to mental wellness, guardian for your property), some landlords may be concerned about damage, or extensive wear and tear to the property. While the risk is justified, making smart choices may enable you to get ahead of unwanted repairs by choosing pet-friendly options in the home. Granted you may not end up with a tenant who owns a pet, but if you do, you’ll know your property will fare well under trotting feet. In fact, this concept of making your property pet-friendly has a name – ‘barkitecture’ – and involves blending what’s needed for pets with the design and aesthetic of a home. Some areas to consider:

• Flooring: carpets and animals aren’t always compatible; floorboards are durable, functional and stylish and best of all, easy to clean.
• Landscaping: if the property allows for an outdoor space for pets, ensuring fencing and gate access is suitable. Some plants are toxic to pets if ingested so it is good to be on top of this if doing a backyard redesign. Gravel and sand can also attract cats as they look and feel similar to a cat litter box – best to avoid if possible.
• Fittings: While there are many after-market products available for pet owners, protecting permanent fittings, such as doors and windows, should be considered. Quality security screens will last a lot longer over insect screens, not to mention added safety. You may even wish to install permanent dog/cat flaps for indoor/ outdoor access.
• Fencing: It may be one of the biggest concerns for a pet owner when searching for a property – will my pet be secure? Not only will adequate fencing keep pets safe, but also deter unwanted visitors. There may be problems areas where wear and tear or damage has occurred, so a thorough check of the property perimeter is a good idea in case reinforcement is necessary.
• Paint: The paint you choose in your property is important and while it may not necessarily be directly for pets, choosing a high sheen, easy to clean paint finish will make cleaning and maintenance a lot easier.

You do not need to completely overhaul your property to accommodate pets, but it is important that it is made clear to tenants that any damage made to the property should be remedied. Essentially, the property should be in the same condition at the end of the tenancy as it was at the start. The number of pets allowed and if they’re permitted inside or outside only, as well as any further requirements such as administering flea treatments, should be specified in the tenancy agreement.