Denver is one of the most dog-friendly cities in the country, with about 158,000 canines living here. That number is put into perspective when compared to the number of children in Denver: 140,000.
In an area with more dogs than kids, allowing pets in a rental property can be a win-win situation. Landlords tap into a larger pool of tenants and pet owners can find suitable housing.
Reasonably, many property managers and landlords are hesitant to allow pets. While animals aren't always trouble-makers, they do open the door to some complications. However, these issues can often be avoided with clear policies and precautions.
Before you make up your mind, you'll want to keep reading this article! In it, we'll share some of the most common pitfalls of allowing pets in a rental property. Then, we'll share how you can avoid these!
1. Forgetting Policies for Support Animals in Rentals
Support animals fall under the umbrella of reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities. That means even properties with a strict no-pet policy must follow federal regulations and allow apartment support animals.
Unfortunately, distinguishing between support animals and regular pets can be challenging. At times, tenants exploit these regulations to bypass pet policies.
Landlords need to establish a clear and comprehensive pet policy. It should outline the responsibilities of tenants with pets, including care and behavior. If a tenant has a support animal, the landlord may ask for documentation proving the need for it during tenant screening.
2. Wear and Tear on Property
In an active urban area like Denver, dogs are likely to venture outdoors. After a hike or a play date at the park, dogs are bound to be dirty, tracking up carpet. Winter weather can exacerbate this issue, especially during periods of snow.
Even the cleanest of pets can scratch hardwood flooring and doors or chew on baseboards.
Landlords must set clear guidelines when it comes to cleaning and damage. Failure to comply should have specific penalties, such as deposit deductions.
Moreover, landlords should conduct and document thorough move-in and move-out inspections. Some landlords choose to charge a pet fee each month to pay for any damages or cleaning costs.
3. Neighbor Relations and Noise Concerns
In urban neighborhoods, one barking dog can disturb dozens of individuals. Barking dogs disrupt the peace of shared living spaces and strain neighbor relations.
Again, the landlord pet policy can prevent this issue. Establish guidelines for acceptable noise levels and pet behavior. Let tenants know what will happen if their pets' behavior causes complaints.
Pets in a Rental Property Can Be a Win-Win
Allowing pets in a rental property can cause issues. But, that doesn't mean you have to avoid them all together! With proper planning, a clear apartment pet policy, and communication, you can rent to responsible pet owners.
Making decisions about your property can be difficult. There are legal matters to navigate and policies to write. All this can be time-consuming and overwhelming.
Contact Laureate to find out how we can take the work out of renting your property!
