Allowing pets in your rental property can be a great way to attract more tenants, as pet-friendly homes are in high demand. However, renting with pets also comes with its own set of challenges and considerations. Which is why we put together guidelines for renting to tenants with pets. As a landlord or investor, it’s key to strike a balance between welcoming pet owners and protecting your property. Here’s everything you need to know about renting with pets.

1. Establish a Clear Pet Policy

Before welcoming pets into your rental, it’s crucial to have a well-defined pet policy. This will help set expectations for both you and your tenants. Key points to consider include:

  • Types of Pets Allowed: Will you allow cats, dogs, or other pets like birds, reptiles, and fish? It’s important to specify what types of animals are welcome.
  • Breed and Size Restrictions: Many landlords impose restrictions on certain dog breeds or large animals. This can help mitigate potential property damage or liability issues.
  • Pet Limit: Set a limit on the number of pets a tenant can have to avoid overcrowding.
  • Additional Fees: Consider charging a pet deposit, pet rent, or both. These fees can help cover potential damage or increased wear and tear.

2. Include Pet-Specific Lease Terms

To protect your investment, make sure your lease agreement includes detailed pet-related clauses. These terms should outline:

  • Pet Deposits: A refundable pet deposit can be used to cover any damages caused by the pet.
  • Pet Rent: Some landlords charge a monthly pet rent in addition to the regular rent. This helps compensate for the increased cleaning and maintenance costs associated with pets.
  • Tenant Responsibilities: Include language that holds tenants responsible for cleaning up after their pets, preventing excessive noise, and ensuring their pets don’t disturb other residents.
  • Consequences for Damage: Be clear about the consequences if a pet causes significant damage to the property. This can include withholding the pet deposit or requiring the tenant to cover the cost of repairs.

3. Prepare Your Property for Pets

Making your property pet-friendly goes beyond simply allowing pets. There are practical steps you can take to minimize the potential impact of pets on your rental unit. Some ideas include:

  • Durable Flooring: Consider installing pet-resistant materials like vinyl or tile flooring, which are easier to clean and less likely to be damaged by claws.
  • Fenced Outdoor Areas: If your property has outdoor space, a fenced yard can be a great feature for pet owners, giving them a secure area for their pets to play.
  • Pet Waste Stations: In multifamily properties, adding designated pet waste stations can help encourage tenants to clean up after their animals, keeping common areas and walkways tidy.

4. Screen Pets as You Would Screen Tenants

Just like tenant screening, it’s a good idea to implement a pet screening process. Pet screening helps landlords evaluate the health and behavior of a tenant’s animal. Key factors to consider during pet screening include:

  • Health Records: Ensure the pet is up-to-date on vaccinations and is spayed or neutered.
  • Behavioral History: Ask about the pet’s temperament and any past incidents of aggressive behavior, especially around other pets or children.
  • References: If possible, ask for references from previous landlords to learn how the pet behaved in their former residence.

5. Understand Local Laws Regarding Pets

Landlords should also familiarize themselves with local laws regarding pets, especially when it comes to service animals and emotional support animals. Under the Fair Housing Act, service animals and emotional support animals are not considered pets, and landlords are required to make reasonable accommodations for tenants who have them.

Failure to comply with these regulations can result in legal penalties, so it’s important to know your rights and responsibilities as a landlord when it comes to renting to tenants with service animals.

Ensure Your Property is Protected and Tenants are Safe

Did you know that Chicago is one of the most pet-friendliest cities in the US and has the highest density of dogs, with 22 dogs for every 100 people? Allowing pets in your rental property can open up a wider pool of potential tenants and increase tenant satisfaction. By being proactive, you can create a pet-friendly environment that works for both you and your tenants. We hope you find these guidelines for renting to tenants with pets helpful. Contact us today to learn how we can help you navigate the complexities of rental property management.