Pet Policies Explained: What You Need to Know

In today’s rental market, pets are more than welcome guests—they’re family. But for landlords and tenants alike, navigating pet policies can be tricky. Whether you're a renter looking to move in with your furry friend or a property owner deciding if you should allow pets, having a clear pet policy is essential.

Here’s what you need to know about pet policies—and why they matter.

What Is a Pet Policy?

A pet policy is a section of your lease agreement that outlines the rules and expectations regarding pets in a rental property. It covers everything from what kinds of animals are allowed to the responsibilities of the tenant.

🏠 Why Pet Policies Matter

• For Property Owners: A well-written pet policy helps protect your property from damage, avoids disputes, and ensures consistent rules across tenants.

• For Renters: It provides clarity on what’s allowed, helps avoid fines or lease violations, and sets expectations from day one.

🐶 What’s Typically Included in a Pet Policy?

Here are some of the most common things you’ll find (or should include) in a rental pet policy:

1. Types of Allowed Pets

• Are dogs allowed? What about cats, birds, reptiles, or exotic animals?

• Some landlords specify types or even breeds (e.g., no large dog breeds).

  
  

2. Breed or Size Restrictions

• Often applies to dogs: for example, no dogs over 50 pounds or certain breeds deemed aggressive.

  
  

3. Number of Pets

• Limits are often set (e.g., no more than two pets per unit).

  
  

4. Pet Fees, Deposits & Rent

• Pet Deposit: One-time, refundable fee to cover possible damages.

• Pet Rent: Monthly charge, typically $25–$50 per pet.

• Pet Fee: One-time, non-refundable fee in some cases.

  
  

5. Tenant Responsibilities

• Cleaning up after pets, preventing noise complaints, managing fleas or odors, and ensuring pets are not a danger to neighbors.

  
  

6. Prohibited Areas

• Some common areas (like pools, lobbies, or fitness centers) might be off-limits to pets.

🐕 Service Animals vs. Emotional Support Animals (ESAs)

This is important—and often misunderstood.

• Service Animals: Trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities. They are not pets and are protected under the ADA. You cannot charge pet fees or deny housing based on breed or size.

• Emotional Support Animals (ESAs): These animals provide comfort and are protected under the Fair Housing Act—but landlords can request proper documentation. Fees and breed restrictions typically do not apply here either.

👩‍⚖️ Tips for Landlords

• Always follow federal, state, and local laws—especially regarding ESAs and service animals.

• Require tenants to sign a pet addendum to the lease.

• Consider requiring pet liability insurance if your policy allows.

• Schedule periodic inspections to check for pet-related damage.

📝 Tips for Renters

• Be honest about your pets—don’t try to sneak them in.

• Keep your pet well-behaved and clean to avoid complaints.

• Read your lease carefully and ask questions if something is unclear.

• If you're requesting an ESA accommodation, provide documentation early.

Pets can bring joy, comfort, and companionship—but they can also bring questions and confusion if the rules aren’t clear. A well-written pet policy protects both the property and the people living in it.