Comprehensive Pet Policy for Landlords

In Boston and surrounding areas, pet ownership is prevalent, with 38.7% of households owning a pet according to recent data. As a landlord, implementing a well-defined pet policy can attract a larger pool of tenants and increase revenue while protecting your property.

Benefits of Allowing Pets

  1. Broader Tenant Pool: Nearly 40% of households in Boston own pets. By permitting pets, you can appeal to a significant portion of prospective renters.
  2. Increased Revenue: Charge monthly pet rent (typically $25-$75 per pet) and collect higher security deposits to cover potential damages.
  3. Long-Term Tenancy: Pet-friendly properties often attract tenants who are more likely to renew leases, reducing vacancy and turnover costs.

Pet Policy Recommendations

  1. Type of Pets Allowed: Specify allowable pets (e.g., cats, dogs, or small caged pets). Exotic or large animals may be excluded.
  2. Size and Breed Restrictions: Set weight limits or exclude aggressive breeds. Note that breed-specific bans may not always predict behavior effectively.
  3. Age of Pets: Avoid allowing young pets such as puppies and kittens due to their higher potential for damage.
  4. Vaccinations and Licensing: Ensure all pets are up-to-date on vaccinations and properly licensed.

  5. Lease Addendum: Include a detailed pet addendum in your lease agreement that specifies: a)Allowed pet types and sizes. b)Tenant responsibilities for cleaning and damage repair. c)Penalties for unauthorized pets or policy violations.

Fee Structure

Pet Type

Weight Range

Pet Rent (Monthly)

Cats

All sizes

$25

Small Dogs

Up to 25 lbs

$25

Medium Dogs

26-50 lbs

$50

Large Dogs

Over 50 lbs

$75

Note: Ensure fees and deposits comply with Massachusetts state laws, which cap security deposits at one month’s rent.

Legal Considerations

Under the Fair Housing Act, service animals and ESAs are not considered pets and are afforded special legal protections:

  • Landlord cannot reject an applicant with an ESA or service animal, even if there is a no-pet policy.
  • Landlord cannot charge additional pet rent, fees, or deposits for ESAs or service animals.
  • Applicants must provide appropriate documentation for ESAs, if requested, but cannot be discriminated against.

Common Pet Policy Questions

  1. What types of flooring are best for pet-friendly properties?
    • Durable options like laminate, tile, or vinyl are preferable to prevent scratches and stains.
  2. Can I limit the number of pets?
    • Yes, you can specify a maximum number of pets per unit, provided it’s applied consistently.
  3. What if a tenant violates the pet policy?
    • Clearly outline consequences in the lease agreement, such as fines or potential eviction.

Conclusion

A well-structured pet policy benefits both landlords and tenants by increasing property appeal, generating additional income, and protecting against potential damages. Whether allowing pets or maintaining a no-pet policy, understanding and adhering to legal requirements ensures a smooth and compliant rental process.