Renting out property is time-consuming enough as it is. Pets are just one additional factor that many landlords do not have time to deal with, which is understandable if you have property that is easily damaged. However, it might be to your advantage to allow pet owners as tenants. But this is all a case-by-case basis. Here are some pointers when screening pet owners:

Aggression

Any landlord that allows pet-owners will have almost no trouble allowing pets like cats and birds. Dogs are a completely different issue. Their aggression varies based on their breed and training. Allowing all pet owners except for dog owners can hurt your business. So it is best to screen dog owners on a case-by-case basis. Research the breed before meeting the prospect in order to prepare yourself.

Noise

The noise factor is critical to potential furry tenants. Again, this is a case-by-case basis. But this time it all depends on the kind of property you rent out. If this property is separated from the next property over, this should not be an issue. If you own an apartment complex, this factor makes screening more complicated. When interviewing your tenant and their pet, be wary. Your expectation of noise level based on the dog’s size might not match up with reality.

Temperament

Screening the pet in addition to their owners is crucial to the approval process. Do not go by what the owner tells you about their pride and joy. Communicate to the prospect to bring their pet to your first initial meeting. It could be clear within the first few minutes what kind of temperament their pet has. Of course, your rental, its furnishings, and the security deposit come into play while making a judgment on the pet.

Allowing pet owners as a tenant of yours is completely subjective to you and how you run your business. There’s no national standard on pets inside rentals. Use your own discretion.