Let’s face the facts - we all love our furry friends. Whether big or small, we can’t help but enjoy the company and emotional support they provide to us. Over two -thirds of all homes in the United States have a pet, and as a landlord, it is most likely in your best interest financially to allow pets in your rental property. Choosing to enforce a no pet policy, would most likely hurt your overall success by eliminating those two-thirds of the population. Because leaving the family pet behind is not an option.

Which Property

When making this decision for yourself, one idea to consider is which of your properties you will give the green light to pet owners to lease out. 

Popular trends would tell you that people with dogs love to rent houses. Most houses have a yard, which makes it extremely convenient to let Fido outside, as well as give him plenty of space to run and play. And the more energy the pup can get out, the better! A tired dog will often sleep more, which eliminates more wear and tear on your rental home.

If you own a condo you will have to give the idea of pets a little more thought. Closer living spaces can potentially create more headaches when pets come into the picture, because the noise and smells a pet can create has more potential to bother  neighboring unit.

Which Pets Are OK

As the landlord, you have the ultimate say in which types of pets you will authorize to live on site. 

Dogs and cats are usually a no brainer, however you may want, or need, to restrict the size of the pet and even the breed if necessary. If your property is governed by a Condo Owners’ Association, you should check with the property rules and regulations to make sure they do not have any of their own restrictions. 

While at first thought, limiting pet size to smaller animals may seem the safest bet, remember that there are many large breed dogs that have calm and gentle dispositions and may be quieter and less destructive. Taking each pet on a case by case basis is also an option. 

Other pets that are generally safe to approve are birds, fish, and hamsters.

Which Laws To Be Mindful Of

The Fair Housing Act is a law to be careful you do not violate. There are special laws in place to protect true service animals, such as seeing eye dogs and dogs trained to perform a specific service for their owner. Under law, you must allow these pets , and no pet security deposit can be charged. 

Some laws may vary by state. Be sure to check on the laws in your state to ensure you are in compliance.

When your potential tenant makes application, they will give you the information about their pets. This is your opportunity to make an educated decision about if this pet and their owner will be a good fit for your property. 

When it comes time for the lease signing, be sure to get all pet info in writing. Include the pet’s breed, weight, and all shot records and vet contact information. If there is a limit on how many pets are acceptable at the property, be sure of get that in writing as well. 

It’s also important to get in writing how much the pet deposit will be. Is it refundable? Is there pet rent or pet fees? Go into the contract with all expectations clearly understood by all parties. 

Allowing your tenants to bring their pets is a wise decision to keep your property a relevant frontrunner in the rental market. 

If you want help managing your rental property. Contact Thousand Hills Realty at 417-337-8081. We are the premier property management company in Hollister, MO and we would love the opportunity to earn your business.