The business case for pets
72% of renters own pets or plan to. By excluding them, you're eliminating most of your market. Pet-friendly units rent faster (by 10–20 days on average), command higher rents ($25–$75/month pet rent is standard), and generate longer tenancies (pet owners move less frequently).
The fear of damage is overblown. Studies show the average pet causes only $300–$500 in extra wear over a year-long lease — easily covered by a reasonable deposit and monthly pet rent. The revenue upside far exceeds the risk.
The pet policy framework
A good pet policy has three components: screening, financial protection, and rules.
- Screening: Require pet references from previous landlords. Ask about breed, age, weight, and temperament. Meet the pet in person if possible.
- Financial protection: Charge a pet deposit ($200–$500, refundable) plus monthly pet rent ($25–$75). Some landlords charge a non-refundable pet fee instead — this is legally riskier in some states.
- Rules: Specify where pets can go (no off-leash in common areas), waste disposal requirements, noise expectations, and liability (tenants must carry renter's insurance covering pet incidents).
Breed restrictions and insurance
Many landlords restrict breeds based on insurance company blacklists (typically pit bulls, Rottweilers, German shepherds, and Dobermans). But breed-specific restrictions are increasingly challenged by fair housing advocates and may violate local laws.
A better approach: evaluate pets individually. Require renter's insurance with pet liability coverage ($100,000+). Meet the dog before approval. Check references. A well-trained pit bull is less risky than an untrained golden retriever.
Emotional support and service animals
These are not pets — they're medical accommodations protected by federal law. You cannot charge pet deposits, pet rent, or fees for service or emotional support animals. You cannot refuse them based on breed or size.
You can, however, require documentation (a letter from a licensed healthcare provider for ESAs; no documentation required for service animals). You can hold tenants liable for any damage caused by the animal. And you can enforce the same behavior rules (no excessive noise, waste cleanup) that apply to pets.