Pet-Friendly Rentals: Weighing the Pros and Cons of Allowing Furry Friends in Your Property

As a landlord, one of the biggest decisions you will face is whether or not to allow pets in your rental property. It's a decision that can have a significant impact on your property, your tenants ,and your overall experience as a landlord. So, the question is, should you allow pets in your rental property or not?

The Pros

Larger Pool of Renters

On one hand, allowing pets can attract a larger pool of potential renters. Many people have pets and are looking for a place where they can bring them. By opening up your property to renters with pets, you may have a better chance of quickly filling your vacancies and earning a steady stream of rental income.

The Option to Restrict Breeds

Another point to consider is whether you want to restrict certain breeds or types of pets from living in your rental property. Some landlords do not allow dangerous dog breeds, such as pit bulls or Rottweilers, for example. Others place restrictions on the size or number of pets allowed on the property. 

Clear Guidelines

If you decide to allow pets, it's important to be clear about expectations and rules for your renters. Will you require a pet deposit or additional rent for pets? What safety precautions should pet owners take for their animals? Establishing clear guidelines can help avoid any misunderstandings and create a positive rental experience for you and your tenants.

The Cons

Repairing Pet Damage

Pets can cause extensive damage to your property. Animals can scratch the floors, chew on the walls and furniture, and leave behind unpleasant smells that can be hard to get rid of. Repairing pet damage can be costly and time-consuming, which can eat into your bottom line.

Liability

As mentioned above, many landlords choose not to allow dangerous dog breeds because that creates liability for you as the property owner should anything happen. Allowing pets in general in your rental property can also create noise disruptions for the neighbors. Barking dogs or meowing cats can be a nuisance to neighbors and can even lead to complaints from them, which you, as the landlord, may have to resolve.

In conclusion, the decision of whether to allow pets in your rental property ultimately depends on what you are comfortable with as a landlord. Assess the potential risk of property damage, the impact on other residents, and the market demand for pet-friendly rentals. By weighing both the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision that will benefit both you and your tenants.