If you’re a pet owner, you know that our furry friends hold a special place in our hearts. Many of them become lifelong friends that see us through all our ups and downs, and they enrich our lives in a beautiful way. 

So, why not make your rental property pet-friendly? In addition to making your tenants happy, this could also make your property more profitable for you. 

Not all landlords allow pets in their rental property. Tenants who have pets have already formed a bond with their furry friends and will be reluctant to let them go. By making your rental property pet-friendly, you can attract these tenants in addition to non-pet owners as well. You’ll be casting a wider net and as such, you’ll probably face a higher tenancy rate which equals more regular rental income! 

And here’s the best part: Making your rental property pet-friendly isn’t very hard! By keeping a few important things in mind, you’ll make your property enticing to pet owners in no time.

Here’s 8 tips to make your rental property pet-friendly while still protecting your property:

1. Require that pets are licensed, vaccinated and spayed/neutered

Dogs need to have a licence issued by the local council. As part of your due diligence, ask for a copy of the licence and proof of yearly vaccination. This is to ensure that your tenants aren’t keeping their pets illegally without the necessary shots and vaccinations. Also, this helps to safeguard the health and safety of other pets in the neighbourhood as well.

Neutering pets, on the other hand, can reduce urine-marking and mounting habits in the house. In addition, neutering is also said to reduce aggression in pets, so it can reduce the likelihood of problems arising down the line.

2. Include a pet policy in the tenancy agreement

As a landlord, when you allow pets to stay in your rental property, it’s always best to include a pet policy in the tenancy agreement that clearly spells out the responsibilities of the pet owners.

The pet policy should specify the type and number of pets allowed in your property. Certain condos may have strict rules, so you’ll need to check with the condo management regarding this matter.

In addition, the pet policy should also include details on what is expected of the owner. For instance, this could include yearly licence renewal, vaccinations, and regular walks to prevent pets from acting up or having accidents.

You could also request a larger deposit to cover any potential damage caused by the pets. This also encourages pet owners to take extra precautions to protect the property so they don’t lose their deposit.

When landlords have a strict no pet policy, tenants may end up sneaking pets in without the landlord’s knowledge. By allowing pets, you can at least collect a larger deposit to minimise your potential losses.

Talk to your agent or lawyer about incorporating a pet policy in the tenancy agreement, and be sure to make these terms clear to your tenant before signing.

3. Opt for pet-friendly flooring

Avoid hardwood flooring, carpets and rugs for your rental property. Hardwood flooring looks good, but it’s susceptible to scratches. Carpets and rugs, on the other hand, are difficult to clean, especially for heavy shedders. They may also be left with unpleasant stains and odours from accidents that happen inside the house.

Instead, opt for tiles. Any pet dander or fur can be easily swept up or vacuumed. Plus, tiles are easy to mop and clean as well. Any accidents can be cleaned up without a trace!

4. Go for easy wash paint

If you’re a dog owner, you may have noticed that your doggo often rubs its body against the wall. We have no idea why they do this, but they seem to enjoy it!

However, this can leave marks or dirt behind on the walls. Giving your walls a coat of easy wash paint will make them easier to clean and wipe down if they get dirty.

5. Set up a pet potty

It’s always a good idea to have a designated potty area for pets. For landed properties, this potty can be installed in the porch or yard. This prevents pets from doing their business all over the house and leaving unsightly stains behind.

Pet owners will also appreciate the presence of the potty as it’ll reduce accidents, especially when it’s raining and they’re unable to bring their pets out for a walk.

6. Ensure your fencing is secure

Pets often spend time outdoors and owners want their pets to be safe. For landed properties, check your exterior walls and fencing to ensure that they are secure and high enough to prevent pets from escaping.

For main gates that have gaps in them, consider attaching soft plastic mesh fencing along the gate to prevent pets from squeezing out through the bars.

7. Meet the pets

In addition to meeting your prospective tenant, you’ll also want to meet their furry friend! Schedule a meeting with them, so you can interact with the pets and gauge their temperament.

Are they friendly or aggressive? Aggressive dogs that snap at people may intimidate the neighbours, especially if they have young kids. As a result, this could lead to complaints down the line.

Do they bark profusely at strangers? This is especially important for apartments and condos that have strict rules on permitted noise levels.

Make it a point to observe the pet owners too. Are they handling their pets responsibly? Do they pick up after their dogs? Do they allow their pets to lunge at strangers? Observing their behaviour will tell you a lot about them.

8. Schedule annual property reviews

Make sure to check the condition of your property from time to time. Schedule an appointment with your tenants once a year and drop in to check the property.

If there’s any damage due to the pets, discuss corrective actions with your tenants to prevent further damage. Dip into the deposit for repairs if necessary.

Based on your visits, assess whether you want to renew the tenancy agreement. If you choose not to, provide your tenants ample notice, so they can start looking for a different place.

And that’s how you make your rental property pet-friendly while still protecting your property! Allowing pets in your rental property might be worrying, but there are pet owners who will appreciate you for this kind gesture and return the favour by being responsible long-term tenants.

Looking for tenants for your property? Follow these tips and list your pet-friendly property on our website!