Challenges linked to pet-friendly properties include property damage, liability issues, and noise complaints. Hiring a full-service property management company can help you overcome these drawbacks.
According to Humane World for Animals, 72% of renters own pets and struggle to find pet accommodation options. That means landlords will find no shortage of takers for pet-friendly rentals.
However, inspecting your rental property only to find stained carpets and an awful odor permeating every room makes you wonder if the benefits of allowing pets in rental units outweigh the risks.
Fortunately, there are solutions to the challenges associated with homes that allow pets.
Why Don't Most Landlords Allow Pets?
Renting to tenants with pets can be rewarding, but it does bring a set of challenges. These are some of the challenges landlords frequently encounter:
Property Damage
Pets have the potential to cause considerable harm to a rental property. Scratched floors, stained carpets, and ruined floors are some of the negatives connected to pets in rental homes.
Noise Complaints
Some pets can be noisy. Neighbors might complain about dogs barking or whining at inopportune times.
Liability Issues
In Utah, if your tenant's dog bites you, you aren't responsible for the associated costs. However, if the complainant can prove negligence on your part, you could be in trouble.
Lease Complications
It's vital to include clauses that protect you from pet issues and thoroughly vet the pet owners before you rent accommodation to them. You should also ensure that your landlord's insurance covers any damages caused by the tenant's pets.
What Can a Landlord Do if Tenants Have Pets?
Landlords must implement strategies to tackle issues associated with managing pet-friendly rentals. Consider the following pet policy tips:
Include Every Detail in Your Pet Policy
Your pet policy should outline all the rules for keeping a pet in your rental home. These include outlines for:
- Breed restrictions
- Size limits
- The number of pets allowed
Screen Tenants Thoroughly
Conduct background checks focused on the tenant's pet ownership experience. You should also ask for references from previous landlords who allowed pets.
Collect a Pet Deposit
A pet deposit acts as a safety net against damage caused by pets. Although the deposit is refundable, you can deduct the cost of cleaning and repairs before returning it to the tenant.
Inspect Your Property Regularly
Routine inspections help you monitor the condition of your property. During these visits, you can also check whether tenants are complying with your pet policy.
Full-Service Property Management for Homes That Allow Pets?
Opting for full-service property management can alleviate the stress of pet-friendly home management. These professionals are familiar with the ins and outs of homes that allow pets and can assist with pet policies, property inspections, and tenant screening.
Wheeler and Associates has been serving the Ogden, UT, and Salt Lake City, UT, areas since 1973. Our expert team has over 90 years of combined property management experience and a strong commitment to finding the best tenant for every property we oversee.
We can help you open doors to a wider pool of tenants seeking homes that allow pets and handle every detail that goes along with managing these rentals. Reach out and let our professional team guide you in building a thriving rental business that accommodates pet lovers while ensuring your property is well-cared for.
