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Understanding the Importance of Pet Screening in Rental Properties
Over the years, pet ownership has significantly increased and as such, so has the demand for pet-friendly rental properties. A rental space that accommodates pets attracts more potential tenants. However, this doesn’t mean that all pets should be allowed in your rental property. This is where pet screening comes in handy.
We at Keyrenter Property Management South Florida have put together this article to guide you on the things you need to know as a landlord when conducting pet screenings.
Reasons to Allow Pets in Rental Properties:
There are several reasons to consider allowing pets in your rental properties. They are as follows:
Long-term Tenancy
Tenants need to consider their pets when choosing a place to rent. Moving frequently to a new home can be a stressful experience for both humans and pets so most renters would be more inclined to avoid this if they could.
If they see that the rental space can provide good living conditions for their pets, they are more likely to sign or renew their lease to stay long-term.
Attract Tenants and Increase Rental Property Value
Being a pet-friendly rental property will open you up to a whole new tenant demographic. This gets you ahead of the competition and can help renters decide when torn between your property and a no-pets-allowed one.
Interestingly, if your rental property is in pet-friendly neighborhoods, this could also mean an increase in market value, which in turn justifies you charging a slightly higher rental price.
Responsible Pet Owners are Often Responsible Tenants
Having a pet requires dedication, accountability, and financial stability. These are the same qualities needed in a tenant. So, the likelihood of responsible pet owners being reliable tenant are high.
If they do love their pets, they will make sure to look after your rental property as if it’s their own so they can continue to call it home.
What is Pet Screening?
Pet screening has the same idea as tenant screening. The data collected during the pet screening process will inform the landlord about the pet’s behavior, health, and personality. The process may require an application form that includes a questionnaire, and pet health screening documentation.
Like tenant screening, it can also be conducted by the landlord or a third-party agency. If you were to perform it yourself, take note of the following things that you need to assess the potential renter’s pet:
Questionnaire
Start with creating a seamless pet screening process where pet owners can provide a quick summary of their pet. Learn what kind of pet and breed they have, the age and weight of the animal and if they have a pet identification. You can then proceed with medical and behavior-related questions to inquire about updated vaccines and whether they can provide documentation on those.
In-Person Meeting
Pet screening applications can give you a good overview of the pet. However, to make sure that the pet was accurately described, an in-person meeting would be a good call. Most pets get nervous when they’re in a new environment, surrounded by unfamiliar faces, so be patient and take note that their initial reaction may not accurately reflect how they truly behave.
If you are not comfortable interacting with animals or don’t have the experience to properly assess their behavior, it’s recommended that you seek a licensed professional’s help when screening your prospective tenant’s pet.
What are the Benefits of a Pet Screening Service
This entire pet screening process can take so much of your time, so it’s a good idea to let a third-party service draft a pet policy and conduct screenings on your behalf.
A professional can create a pet policy that helps you identify the right fees to charge and how you can limit pet-associated damages and risks. Potential tenants would submit their interest in pet accommodation directly to them, then the service provider would assess the submitted documents and gauge possible risks. From there, they’d advise you on how to abide by pertinent laws and regulations and make recommendations.
Pet Clauses in Lease Agreements
When drafting a lease agreement, include a clause about pets in the rental. Just like tenant screening, pet screening should also be done consistently to prevent or minimize any potential risks or damage as well as avoid unintentional discrimination. Make sure to keep updated pet records every time tenants renew their lease.
While all pets are subject to pet screening, registered service dogs and emotional support animals are exempt from the rule. In lieu of the pet screening, you can just request a letter from the tenant or their mental health professional that outlines the need for a service animal.
Notice to Tenants to Remove Their Pet
On your pet agreement, it’s important that you are clear with the expectations. Always include how much notice you will give your tenants to remove their pet in case the agreement is violated. Of course, it’s always best to resolve any pet-related issues first before going straight to having the pet removed from the property. But if necessary, the tenant must have an understanding of the process.
Most importantly, include the fees you will collect for allowing the pet. Common fees collected are a pet deposit and a one-time pet fee. This will cover possible damage and in restoring the house’s condition. The law may vary from state to state so make sure that you are up to date when drafting your pet agreement.
Bottom Line
Being a landlord has many responsibilities but owning a pet-friendly rental property doesn’t need to be risky. A seamless screening process can help you in minimizing possible damages and increase rental rates. If you need help with conducting a pet screening or managing your rentals, contact Keyrenter Property Management South Florida today!