Pets are a contentious issue for both landlords and tenants. Most tenants want to bring their furry friends when renting a property. However, landlords worry about the potential damage that pets can cause. This is why both landlords and tenants need to be aware of the possible damage pets can cause in rental properties. Continue reading below as discuss things about things to consider when navigating pet damage in a rental.
3 Things to Consider About Pet Damage in Rental Properties
1. Potential Types and Costs of Damage
There are several types of pet damage that tenants with furry friends can create. Scratched floors and door frames from excited claws are very common in rentals that allow dogs and cats. Stains or odors in carpeting and flooring from pet urine and accidents also frequently occur. Pets also tend to gnaw and chew on cabinetry, doors, window sills, walls, and baseboards – leading to expensive replacement or repair costs.
The extent of pet damage can range from minor scratches and wear that require an extra deep clean at turnover to destroyed carpets, floors, and fixtures that could cost thousands for the owner to replace. As a landlord, educate yourself on typical repair and replacement expenses to better prepare financials when dealing with these concerns. Tenants should also recognize common damage their particular pet could create so they can proactively prevent issues.
2. Establish Clear Expectations in Writing
To minimize risks as a landlord, be clear about your pet policies and expectations upfront before allowing a tenant to move in with pets. Provide detailed rules around cleaning up accidents, supervision when pets are loose, off-limit areas in the unit, expectations about claws and chewing, etc. Also be clear on restrictions around the number, type, and size of pets you will allow. Enforcing strict pet deposits and monthly pet rents can also help offset potential risks in your lease agreement.
As a renter wanting to bring a pet, be upfront about the type, size, age, and behavior history of your furry friend. Demonstrate that you understand any policies and commit to extra cleaning, supervision, and restriction areas that may apply. Good communication, documented policies, and signed commitments upfront are key to both parties feeling secure.
3. Use Pet Deposits Wisely
Collecting large pet deposits, such as $500+ per pet, is strongly recommended for landlords concerned about damage risks. This provides a source of funds to draw from if any pet damage does occur. Many states have laws requiring deposits to be placed into interest-bearing accounts – providing a small amount of extra protection against inflation on repair costs years later if needed. To make the tenants feel better, try making your rental pet-friendly as well.
As a tenant, do your part by having your well-behaved pet on their best behavior, restricting access as needed, and thoroughly cleaning up any accidents that happen despite your best efforts. Ensure to take plenty of photos showing the condition of the property when you move in and out. This can provide proof against any pre-existing or reasonable wear-and-tear concerns if deposit disputes arise after your tenancy ends.
Practices to Consider When Pets Are Allowed in a Rental
When permitting pets in your rental property, having clear pet policies and processes in place is key for minimizing issues down the road. Here are some best practices both landlords and tenants alike should consider when pets will occupy a rental home.
Establish Clear Guidelines in Your Pet Policy
Professional Property Management In Northern Virginia reminds pet owners that it’s still their full responsibility to ensure their pets won’t access crucial household items. As a landlord, outline a detailed pet policy that incoming tenants with pets must review and consent to in writing. This policy should clearly spell out things like:
- The types of pets allowed – outlining size, weight, and breed restrictions
- The number of pets allowed per rental
- Areas that are off-limits to pets, like carpeted rooms or outdoor spaces
- Cleaning and noise expectations for pet owners
- Your pet fee and monthly pet rent structure
Follow these pet-proofing tips while building a good tenant experience in your rental. Make sure new tenants understand their responsibilities regarding cleaning, supervision, damages, and liability when moving in with pets.
Consider a “Pet Interview” Before Move In
Before allowing incoming pets, arrange for a basic meet-and-greet with the animal. Observe the pet’s temperament—are they aggressive or very anxious? Do they seem destructive? This gives you a chance to make sure the pet is a good fit not only for your property but also for peaceful cohabitating with other nearby tenants.
If issues do ever arise with the pet later on, you can refer back to your documented first impressions should action ever need to be taken to remove or restrict the problematic pet after move-in.
Conduct Regular Property Inspections
Perform quarterly inspections explicitly looking for signs of pet damage once pets are living in your rental. Document any minor repairs needed or notable stains, smells, or other issues rooted in irresponsible pet care. Provide written warnings and reminders to reinforce policies if needed.
For tenants, take pride in caring for the property as outlined in your rental agreement. Note ways you are combatting pet odors, claws, waste, and noise appropriately. Encourage open communication and speak up about potential issues immediately rather than hiding them for fear of consequences.
Here are some of the areas you need to consider when conducting property inspections:
- Look for signs of excessive scratching or clawing on doors, walls, baseboards, and floors – are special claw sheaths or nail trims needed?
- Check for urine stains or lingering odors around baseboards, floors, walls, or carpets – is house training or extra enzymatic cleaner needed?
- Note any pet waste found in outdoor areas that should be cleaned up promptly.
- Watch for evidence of chewing on electric cords, wood trim, door frames, or furniture legs.
- Evaluate the condition of outdoor fencing or nationality of doors/gates – are repairs needed to restrict pet escapes?
- Ask other tenants if they’ve had issues with noise from barking dogs disturbing them.
- Document any damage right away with photos/video and written repair estimates from contractors.
Final Words
Following these tips can help protect the interests of property owners and pet-owning renters alike. Being proactive and communicative is key to minimizing frustrating problems or expenses for all parties.
