In Gibraltar’s bustling rental market - where supply is tight, demand is high, and the community is close-knit - landlords are constantly looking for ways to stand out. One increasingly attractive approach is allowing pets in rental properties. While some landlords have long been hesitant due to concerns about potential damage, noise, or neighbour complaints, there is a growing body of evidence and local experience suggesting that pet-friendly policies can actually be a win–win.
Below, we explore the reasons why allowing pets can benefit landlords in Gibraltar specifically, along with practical considerations for making it work.
1. Expanding Your Potential Tenant Pool
Gibraltar’s housing market is small but highly competitive. Because the territory attracts a mix of local families, expatriates working in finance or gaming, and cross-border professionals, there’s a diverse pool of potential tenants. While many of these people are on short term work contracts creating a constant stopping and starting of tenancies, many more are UK expatriate famillies where - as we all know - pets are integral to family life.
By advertising a property as “pet-friendly,” landlords instantly increase their target audience. In a market where demand is already high, this can give landlords the luxury of choosing from a broader range of qualified applicants. This is particularly true for properties with outdoor space, balconies, or proximity to walking routes like the Upper Rock Nature Reserve or Commonwealth Park - features that are especially appealing to pet owners.
2. Longer Tenancies and Reduced Turnover
One of the most consistent findings in rental market research is that tenants with pets often stay longer. Moving can be complicated for anyone, but for pet owners, it’s even more stressful and expensive - especially in Gibraltar, where pet-friendly rentals are relatively scarce.
When a tenant finds a landlord who welcomes their furry companion, they are far more likely to renew their tenancy rather than risk a lengthy search for another suitable property. Longer tenancies mean fewer costly void periods and less time spent marketing and preparing the property for new tenants.
3. Potential for Higher Rent
Landlords can often justify charging a slightly higher rent to offset any potential wear and tear. Tenants with pets are generally aware of this and may be willing to pay a premium for the peace of mind of knowing their pet is welcome.
For example, a one-bedroom apartment near Main Street that allows pets could reasonably command £50–£100 more per month than a similar one that doesn’t. Over the course of a year, that difference adds up - covering any additional maintenance costs and potentially boosting overall returns.
4. Building Stronger Landlord–Tenant Relationships
When landlords allow pets, they’re not just providing a roof - they’re providing a home for an entire family, including the four-legged members. This gesture often builds goodwill and loyalty, leading to more respectful treatment of the property.
Many Gibraltar landlords have shared anecdotal stories of pet-owning tenants who go out of their way to maintain good relations and keep the property in excellent condition as a way of “repaying” the landlord’s trust.
5. Meeting a Genuine Community Need
In a compact and urban setting like Gibraltar, access to pet-friendly housing can be surprisingly limited. Yet pet ownership remains popular, from small breeds suited to apartment life to cats that enjoy safe indoor spaces. Allowing pets not only serves market demand - it contributes to the overall well-being of the community.
Residents with pets tend to spend more time outdoors, whether it’s walking along the seafront or socialising in the parks. This can foster stronger neighbourhood ties and create a friendlier, more connected environment within the building or area.
6. Reducing the Risk of “Secret Pets”
One of the risks of a strict “no pets” policy is that some tenants may choose to keep a pet anyway, without informing the landlord. This can lead to unmonitored damage, disputes, and trust breakdowns.
By openly allowing pets - and including clear rules in the tenancy agreement - landlords can ensure that pet ownership is managed responsibly from the start. This gives landlords the chance to set expectations, conduct proper inspections, and avoid unpleasant surprises.
7. Practical Tips for Pet-Friendly Letting in Gibraltar
Allowing pets does not mean relinquishing control. Here are some practical strategies Gibraltar landlords can use to balance opportunity with protection:
a. Request Pet References
Just as tenants may provide employment or previous landlord references, pet owners can offer information from past landlords or neighbours confirming that their pet is well-behaved.
b. Add a Pet Clause to the Lease
Include specific terms such as the passport number of pet(s) allowed, noise control measures, and responsibility for cleaning and repairs.
c. Take a Higher Security Deposit
While Gibraltar follows certain rules on deposits, landlords may still be able to request an amount that reasonably reflects the potential for extra cleaning or minor repairs. Standard security deposits are 1 months' rent, but 2 months' can be requested to where a pet is agreed.
d. Conduct Regular Inspections
Scheduled inspections give landlords a chance to check on the property’s condition and address any issues before they escalate.
e. Limit by Size or Breed (if needed)
Some landlords are comfortable allowing cats and small dogs but may set restrictions for larger breeds due to space limitations or building rules. For example, smaller dogs like poodles and staffys may be fine, but larger breeds such as alsations or huskys may not be ideal.
8. Addressing Common Concerns
Concern: Pets will damage the property.
Reality: With proper screening and clauses in place, damage is often minimal. Most pet owners are proactive about keeping their homes clean and will repair minor issues themselves.
Concern: Pets will disturb neighbours.
Reality: This risk can be reduced by allowing only certain types of pets, requiring noise control, adding complaint clauses to contracts and ensuring tenants are aware of their responsibilities.
Concern: It will be harder to re-let the property after a pet-owning tenant leaves.
Reality: A professional deep clean (which can be made a lease requirement) generally restores the property to its original condition, especially if floors and furnishings are durable.
9. Standing Out in Gibraltar’s High-Demand Market
With an increasing number of rental properties available in Gibraltar, landlords can no longer rely solely on location or basic amenities to secure tenants quickly. In a market where prospective renters have plenty of choice, standing out from the competition is essential.
Offering a pet-friendly policy can be that unique edge. It’s not just about filling a vacancy quickly - it’s about attracting tenants who are more likely to stay long-term, look after the property, and appreciate the flexibility you’ve shown. Those qualities can set a landlord apart in a crowded rental market and lead to more stable, profitable tenancies.
10. The Bigger Picture: Pet-Friendly Policies as a Marketing Edge
In a world where tenants increasingly look for lifestyle compatibility in their rental choices, small differentiators can have an outsized effect. Allowing pets in Gibraltar - where living space is at a premium and pet-friendly properties are rare - signals flexibility, understanding, and a tenant-focused approach.
It also gives landlords a marketing advantage. Listings on platforms like PropertyGibraltar.com or Estate Agents’ websites stand out more when they carry the “pets allowed” tag. In a sea of identical apartments, that little phrase can spark immediate interest and multiple enquiries.
Final Thoughts
Allowing pets in rental properties is not without its risks, but in Gibraltar’s unique rental landscape, the benefits can far outweigh the drawbacks. From expanding the pool of prospective tenants and encouraging longer leases to justifying higher rents and building stronger relationships, pet-friendly policies can be a savvy business decision.
By combining clear tenancy agreements with fair screening and maintenance procedures, landlords can protect their investment while meeting a genuine demand in the community. In the process, they may discover that welcoming a tenant’s four-legged friend is one of the best ways to ensure both property stability and tenant satisfaction in Gibraltar’s competitive rental market.