One of the most debated landlord decisions is whether to allow pets. At first glance, a “no pets” policy feels safer—no scratches on the floors, no surprise carpet stains, no barking complaints. But the truth is, opening your rental to pets often brings more benefits than drawbacks.
Nearly 70% of households in the U.S. have a pet. By saying “no,” you instantly cut out the majority of prospective tenants. Pet-friendly rentals stand out in the market, which usually means fewer days sitting vacant and a stronger pool of applicants.
Many pet owners are willing to pay higher rent or non-refundable pet fees, and they tend to stay longer since it’s harder for them to move frequently with their furry friends. That stability means fewer turnovers and reduced vacancy loss.
Here’s another reality: tenants can bring in Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) with the proper documentation, and landlords generally cannot deny them. In practice, this means a “no pets” policy often doesn’t prevent animals—it just increases the odds of surprise occupants. Allowing pets up front gives you more control through pet rent, and clear lease rules.
Why Landlords Often Say “No Pets”
- Damage concerns: scratching, chewing, odors, stains.
- Noise and complaints: barking, whining, etc.
- Allergy issues: future tenants may be sensitive.
- Legal implications: breed or size restrictions may be governed.
But while these are valid worries, the alternative often yields better business outcomes.
Benefits of Allowing Pets
Broader Applicant Pool & Reduced Vacancies
With large portions of renters owning pets, allowing pets widens your market. Properties that explicitly allow pets tend to fill faster. True Property Management highlights that, in its Property Management Services, their rigorous tenant screening processes are designed to “select quality tenants” including those who may have pets. True Property Management
Higher Income Potential
You can have pet fees, pet deposit, or pet rent added to lease terms. The added revenue helps offset the increased wear & tear or maintenance. True Property Management’s FAQ / All About Screening section shows how they run a conscientious screening process—this could include understanding pet history or animal related references in applications. FAQ
Longer Lease Terms
Tenants with pets are more likely to stay longer. Moving with pets is a hassle and cost, so they often prefer stability. In their article How to Attract Long-Term Tenants, True Property Management specifically notes that making policies — including pet-rules — clear upfront helps avoid conflict later and improves retention. True Property Management
Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) & Legal Considerations
Even if a lease says “no pets,” ESAs, with proper documentation, often cannot be lawfully denied under fair housing laws. That means surprises are possible if a policy doesn’t allow pets, but someone claims an ESA. Being pet-friendly (or having clearer exceptions) allows landlords to structure the lease better: define deposits, pet rent, pet rules (size, breed, behavior, cleaning). And you retain more control.
True Property Management’s Tenant Handbook outlines tenant responsibilities, community rules, maintenance, etc.—a good model for having these expectations clearly laid out in writing. True Property Management
Best Practices If You Allow Pets
| Best Practice | Why It Helps |
|---|---|
| Pet deposit &/or non-refundable fee | Covers extra risk and cleaning costs. |
| Pet rent | Ongoing cost helps mitigate wear & tear. |
| Size/breed/type restrictions | Limits potential for damage or nuisance. |
| Behavior rules (noise, waste, supervision) | Sets clear expectations, reduces complaints. |
| Inspections | Catch damage early, enforce lease terms. |
| Include pet-questions in screening | True Property Management mentions in Screen Tenants Like a Pro the usefulness of asking whether applicants have pets as part of their “wants” / “don’t wants” list. True Property Management |
The Bottom Line
A no-pets policy may feel safe, but it often hurts your bottom line via longer vacancies, smaller applicant pools, and possible legal surprises (ESAs, unannounced pets). On the other hand, a pet-friendly policy, when paired with strong lease language, deposits, fees, and clear rules, tends to yield more stable tenants, higher income, and fewer surprises.
Kurt Galitski- Principal, Broker
(949) 688 7705 | DRE #: 01348644