Pets or No Pets? The Answer May Surprise You

Rental Strategies by Rob Massey

RISMEDIA, June 5, 2008-When meeting with prospective single-family home rental owner/clients, it is vital to discuss the subject of whether or not to allow pets. The standard answer that I receive is “no, we prefer no pets in our home.” Interestingly, that response is usually given by owners who have pets themselves.

Consider these facts when deciding if pets should be allowed in a rental house:

- More than half of house renters have pets (dog or cat).
- Most previous homeowners who rent have pets.
- Lost rent resulting from holding out for no-pet renters usually costs an owner more than accepting a renter with a pet and a pet deposit. This is especially true in a soft rental market.

A solid pet policy can really rule out the worst-pet scenarios. Consider these restrictions:

- No new pets-especially puppies or kittens.
- Limit the number of pets per household. I allow up to two.
- Require a refundable pet deposit-double it for two.
- Do not allow aggressive breeds of dogs.

It is not true that a dog is more of a risk for causing damage to a house than a cat. The worst damage that I have seen over the years involved a male cat spraying his urine all over the inside perimeter of a house causing several thousand dollars in damage. Requiring male cats to be neutered should limit this risk.

Renting to people with pets does not have to be a bad experience. Use these guidelines and steer your owner/clients to a happier landlord experience.

Rob Massey, Jr., CPM, is founder of RentalHouses.com and a consultant for Rentals.com.

For more information, visit www.rentals.com.