You finally find the perfect tenant, someone who ticks every box: good credit, solid references, and steady income. Then they ask, “Do you allow pets?” Suddenly, you’re stuck. Do you open doors to furry tenants or keep your rental pet-free?
It’s a tricky decision. Allowing pets can mean more potential renters and higher profits. Still, it also comes with risks like property damage and liability issues. To make the right call, you need to weigh the pros and cons, understand the legal landscape, and set clear rules to protect your investment if you go the pet-friendly route. Oh, and if this all feels overwhelming, don’t worry- this is precisely where a good property manager can make life easier.
Why Pet-Friendly Rentals Are in Demand
If you think renters with pets are a small niche, think again. Over 66% of U.S. households own a pet, and many renters struggle to find housing that allows them. This means pet-friendly properties rent out faster and command higher rates.
In Long Beach, where coastal living meets a strong rental market, tenants often seek homes that welcome their four-legged companions. The city is built for pet lovers, from dog-friendly beaches to pet-friendly cafes. If you exclude them, you could be cutting out many potential renters.
Pros of Allowing Pets in Your Rental
1. Larger Tenant Pool
Allowing pets can give you access to a broader audience. Many renters won’t even consider a property if it doesn’t allow pets, so that you could miss out on responsible, long-term tenants.
2. Higher Rent Potential
Pet-friendly rentals often command higher monthly rent. You can also charge pet deposits or non-refundable pet fees to cover potential damage. Some landlords even charge “pet rent,” an additional monthly fee per pet.
3. Longer Lease Terms
Tenants with pets move less frequently because finding a new rental that accepts pets can be challenging. This means more stability and less turnover for you.
4. More Responsible Tenants
Many landlords find that pet owners tend to be responsible renters. They know the struggle of finding pet-friendly housing, so they’re more likely to take care of the property to avoid losing their lease.
Cons of Allowing Pets in Your Rental
1. Potential Property Damage
Scratched floors, chewed-up doors, and pet stains can be expensive. Even well-behaved pets can cause wear and tear beyond what a security deposit might cover.
2. Noise Complaints
A barking dog or a noisy parrot could lead to complaints from neighbors. If your rental is in a multi-unit building, this could create friction with other tenants.
3. Liability Issues
You could be held responsible if a tenant’s dog bites someone on the property. Some insurance policies exclude coverage for certain dog breeds or incidents, so checking your policy is crucial. This is another area where a skilled property manager can ensure you have the proper protections.
4. Allergy Concerns
If pet dander from a previous occupant lingers, future tenants may have allergies and be deterred from renting your unit. Deep cleaning between tenants might be necessary.
Legal Considerations: What Landlords Need to Know
Laws around pets and rentals vary by location, and Long Beach has its regulations. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
- Service Animals & Emotional Support Animals (ESAs): Under the Fair Housing Act, landlords cannot deny housing to tenants with service animals or ESAs, even if the property has a “no pets” policy. You also cannot charge additional pet fees for these animals.
- Pet Deposits vs. Pet Rent: California law allows landlords to charge a pet deposit, but the total security deposit (including the pet deposit) cannot exceed two months’ rent for unfurnished units.
- Breed Restrictions & Insurance: Some insurance companies exclude coverage for certain dog breeds that are considered “high risk.” Check with your insurance provider to ensure you’re covered if you’re allowing pets.
How Property Managers Can Help
Navigating pet policies, screening tenants, and handling pet-related issues can be a hassle. A professional property manager can help by:
- Setting up clear pet policies and lease agreements.
- Screening tenants with pets to ensure they’re responsible owners.
- Managing property maintenance and addressing any pet-related damages.
- Ensuring compliance with state and local pet-related rental laws.
At CMC Realty and Property Management, we make sure you have a checkmark next to all of the above.
How to Safely Have Pets in Your Rental Property
If you choose to welcome pets into your home or space, there are steps you can take to reduce hazards.
To successfully handle pets on your rental premises, it is crucial to set up rules and protections . First off, demand a contract detailing regulations, on pet conduct , noise management, and the tenant’s accountability, for any harm done.
Charging a fee, for pets upfront, can assist in offsetting the costs of any repairs that may arise during the period.
Restricting the kinds and sizes of pets permitted in an area could help lower dangers – for instance by only allowing small dogs or prohibiting specific breeds from residing there.
Regularly conducting inspections of properties enables landlords to detect pet-related damage at an early stage and resolve any problems before they worsen.
Ensuring that your insurance policy covers incidents involving pets, such as dog bites, is crucial, to safeguarding your finances against liabilities.
The Final Decision
Deciding whether to allow pets in your property is a choice that depends on your rental strategy and preferences. Opting to permit pets can expand your tenant base and boost your earnings; however, if you are worried about possible harm or legal issues from pets on the premise, you may opt not to allow them.
Make sure you have the safeguards in place, no matter what you decide to do with your property investment project. It’s essential to collaborate with a property manager such as our professionals at CMC Realty and Property Management to guide you through these choices and maintain the value of your rental property—regardless of whether it allows pets or not. If you’re prepared to chat about this, reach out today.