According to Zillow’s 2019 survey, 46% of renters had pets and 48% indicated that rentals being pet-friendly was a requirement. When deciding whether to allow pets at your rental property, you should be aware of the advantages and disadvantages of allowing pets; the federal, state, and local laws regarding pets and animals; and how to protect your property and ensure the best experience for renters should you allow pets.
Pros of Allowing Pets at Your Rental
- Higher Rental Income
- With a pet-friendly rental, you can ask for higher rent, charge a pet fee, or get a pet deposit in addition to a security deposit.
- Be sure to check with your locality for what is allowed.
- According to market research, pet owners earn more money than non-pet owners.
- Wider Pool of Applicants
- Considering the number of renters with pets who will not even consider rentals that don’t allow pets, you will open up your property to many more potential applicants.
- Can Lead to Lower Vacancy Rates
- Tenants may be more likely to resign lease for next year if they can’t find other pet-friendly properties.
- You may also fill properties faster if you allow pets.
- Happier Tenants
- Animals help tenants feel at home and can reduce stress.
- Less Likely to Sneak in Pets
- If tenants want a pet but pets are not allowed, they may break the lease and sneak one in anyway.
- Read our blog on what to do if a tenant has sneaked in a pet.
- If tenants want a pet but pets are not allowed, they may break the lease and sneak one in anyway.
Cons of Allowing Pets at Your Rental
- Property Damage
- From chewing, scratching, stains, and more.
- Pets may cause a disturbance to other rentals or neighbors due to noises, odors, or allergies.
- More Turnover
- Tenants will not stay at your rental if they want to get a pet.
- More cleaning and maintenance may be required
Renter’s Insurance
Ensure your tenant has renter’s insurance that covers their pets, particularly if their pet bites someone on the property. Check with your insurance company and homeowner’s association to see if there are any restrictions regarding pets at rental properties.
Screen the Tenant and Their Pet
If possible, meet the animal in person. This is not always possible when relocating, especially in Hawaii. If you are able to meet, try to determine if the animal is well-behaved and well-trained.
Ask the potential tenants questions such as about the pet’s training and behavior, vaccinations and licensing, how long they have had the pet, and who is responsible for the pet if the tenant is away.
Pet Policy and Lease Addendum
When making your decision, be sure to fully understand the rules and regulations, make requirements for your tenants and rental properties, and use a pet addendum in the lease agreement.
In your own pet policy, state the type and number of pets allowed at the property, breed restrictions, limits on size or weight. You can also include requirements such as cleaning up after your pets, leashing dogs, how damages caused by pets will be paid for, or proof of vaccination and other records.
Service and support animals
These animals are not pets. They are a federally protected class and the rules you make for your rental depend on the classification of the type of animal – pets or assistant animals. Read our blog on pets, service animals, and support animals at rental properties for more information.
Allowing pets at your rental property has definite benefits but also comes with risks. If you’re managing your own rental property, carefully weigh the pros and cons and be sure to fully understand the laws regarding pets and service animals.
Our team at Caron B Realty has the services to vet the animals and help you make an informed decision about animals. To talk about animals at your rental property or learn more about our property management services, call our office at (808) 593-9826 or email concierge@caronb.com
