Millions of people own cats, dogs, and other domestic pets. Many of these people are renters who will only look for residences that accept them and their pets. This means they will avoid renting in places that are not pet-friendly.
On the other hand, property managers and owners have every right to refuse to lease to renters with pets. However, by prohibiting pet owners and their animal companions from renting their properties, managers and owners may lose out on a significant chunk of the renter market.
Naturally, some landlords are hesitant because of potential liability and pet damage. These are fair worries, yet vacancy fees are frequently much higher than any harm a pet might cause. You can accept decent renters with pets into your rental property as long as you have a robust pet policy in place.
1. Clarify what is allowed
Landlords should include a pet policy in their rental lease agreements that spells out all of the regulations for having a pet on the property. This agreement should specify how many pets can be there according to per unit, weight, or size restrictions. Also, the types of animals permitted on the property.
2. Pet fees and deposits
Allowing a renter to move in with a pet requires you to collect a pet fee or a pet deposit. This is in addition to the standard security deposit. Some landlords will charge a non-refundable pet fee that the tenant has to pay before the commencement of the lease.
Other landlords require a refundable pet deposit. This one is returned to the tenant once the property has been examined and no pet damage has occurred. You can also collect pet rent every month in addition to the tenant's usual rent payment. Make sure you mention your deposit and fee terms in your lease
3. Licensing and vaccinations
Cats and dogs are the most popular pets in people's homes. These animals must have particular vaccines and their owners must have correct identification and permits for them. Before approving a pet in a renter's unit, it's good that you double-check that they have the necessary papers and that their pets have had all the necessary immunizations.
Also read: Are Tenants Responsible for Lawn Care and Garden Maintenance?
4. Mention tenant responsibilities
The renter, not the landlord, is generally responsible for keeping track of his or her pet. You should maintain the restriction so that residents have a significant role in ensuring that their pet isn't a nuisance to other tenants or the building itself. Also, pet owners should clean up after their dogs, cats, and other animals.
5. Changing pet policy
One thing you should make clear to your tenants when they sign a lease agreement is that you reserve the right to amend your pet policy whenever you want. Also, you might charge them a fee if they bring their pets onto the property. You'll be able to alter your pet policy if problems emerge with animals currently on the premises if you have the power to do it.
6. Picture the pet
Make sure you either meet the pet or acquire a picture of the pet before your tenants and their pets move in. In this manner, you can be certain that the pet you agreed to is the one who is currently residing in your home. It's also crucial to know the distinction between a pet and a service animal. You cannot treat an animal as a pet when a disabled renter requires it for medical or emotional reasons.
The bottom line
It's a smart idea to rent to tenants who have pets, as long as you have a suitable pet policy in place. Pet policies are heavily influenced by property management. You won't have to worry about any of these problems if you have a professional property manager.
