Creating a standard pet policy that you use for all of your properties allows you to create an easy-to-understand set of rules for your tenants to follow. By clearly outlining what you allow and what you don’t allow on your property, you can avoid problems later on. Have your pet policy drafted by an experienced landlord law attorney and make sure all tenants sign it, even if they don’t currently have a pet. People can get pets at any time, so making sure everyone knows your rules protects you from unruly animals and their owners, too.

pet deposits

Will you charge a pet deposit? It’s a personal decision, but even the best-behaved pets can cause damage to your home simply by living there. From dander and vermin to carpet and even wall damage, dogs, cats and birds can cause damage to your rental unit or home. Charging a down payment can offset the costs you’ll face when you need to restore the home to its original, pet-free condition.

Types and Categories of Pets

Will you allow cats, dogs or both? Will you also allow birds, reptiles or exotics? Clearly describing the pets you will and will not allow on the property can protect you in several ways. Specifying the exact species you will allow and excluding everything else protects you. Even reptiles or rodents can be a problem if they escape their enclosures, so specifying exactly what can and cannot live on your property early on can prevent problems and the need for a landlords law attorney later on.

weight maximums

Weight won’t matter with a few farts. Cats, fish, and birds don’t get too big. Dogs, on the other hand, can range from a three-pound terrier to a 200-plus-pound mastiff. While a large dog is not necessarily a dangerous dog, it does add an element of risk to the owner. Any dog ​​can bite, but if a visitor or repairman is bitten by a large dog on his property, he could face a lawsuit. Protect yourself by setting a weight limit and sticking to it. 30lbs allows for all small and some medium breeds and can also automatically exclude most “dangerous” breeds.

Vaccinations and Registration

Any pet that enters your property must be fully vaccinated and legal; Requiring this as part of your pet policy protects you from renters who are not responsible pet owners.

Rules for your property

Clearly describe the rules you have for pets on your property. If you have multiple units, designate an area for dogs to exercise and create a rule that they must be on a leash when outdoors. Think about what rules you think are important and most likely to protect your property, your neighbors, and any other tenants you have. Any rules you set for pets should be in line with local landlord law. Your attorney can help you write the entire policy.

Pets can be a lovely addition to your tenants’ families, but having a strong pet policy can prevent them from damaging your home or exposing you to unnecessary legal risk.