As more renters seek homes that welcome their furry companions, property managers face the challenge of balancing pet-friendly policies with the need to protect their properties. Pet screening is the tool that makes this balance possible. But what does it actually mean, and why has it become such an important part of property management?
In this guide, we’ll break down the basics of pet screening, why it matters, and how property managers can put it into practice to protect their properties while keeping tenants happy.
What Is Pet Screening?
Pet screening refers to the process property managers use to assess whether a pet is a good fit for a rental property. As more renters own pets, this practice has become standard, helping managers avoid the risks that come with allowing animals in rental units. The goal is simple: let responsible pet owners enjoy their homes without sacrificing the property’s value or tenant relationships.
Think of pet screening as a way to set clear expectations. It’s not about keeping pets out, but about making sure they fit into the property’s environment. By assessing each pet individually, property managers can reduce the chance of damage, noise complaints, and conflicts while also making their rental properties more attractive to pet owners.
The Pet Screening Process
The process of screening pets can feel like more work than its worth, but breaking it down into manageable steps makes it easier. Here’s how it works:
- Pet Application Submission: Ask tenants to fill out a pet application, which includes basic details about the pet—breed, size, age, and vaccination history. This gives you the first impression of the pet and helps you determine if it’s a good match for the property.
- Pet History Check: Dive a little deeper into the pet’s past by reviewing references from previous property managers or landlords. This is where you can learn about any prior incidents, damages, or behavioral problems, such as excessive barking or property destruction.
- Behavior and Health Review: Evaluate the pet’s health and behavior to make sure it’s a safe fit for your property. Check for things like up-to-date vaccinations, spaying/neutering status, and any signs of aggression or behavioral issues that could disrupt the peace. Some property managers may request professional evaluations for more challenging cases.
- Using Third-Party Services: If you’d prefer to offload some of the legwork, third-party pet screening platforms can simplify the process. These services typically provide in-depth pet profiles, including background checks, behavior reports, and even pet liability insurance.
The Benefits of Pet Screening
Why go through the trouble of screening pets? Here are the main advantages:
- Protect Your Property: Pets can sometimes be hard on rental spaces—scratched floors, chewed furniture, or torn carpets are common damage claims. Screening pets gives you a better idea of what to expect, helping you prevent costly repairs down the road.
- Keep the Peace: A barking dog can quickly become a tenant’s worst nightmare. Pet screening helps you identify pets that might cause disturbances, from loud noises to behavioral issues that could disturb neighbors. By screening pets, you reduce the chance of disputes and foster a more peaceful living environment.
- Build Trust with Tenants: Transparent pet policies help manage expectations for tenants, creating a clearer understanding of what’s allowed and what’s not. When tenants know the rules upfront, there are fewer misunderstandings and conflicts. Clear guidelines help everyone feel more at ease.
- Boost Tenant Retention: Pet owners are loyal renters. When you make room for their pets, they’re likely to stick around longer. An effective pet screening policy not only attracts more tenants but also encourages them to stay, improving your property’s long-term stability.
Legal Considerations and Fair Housing
It’s also important to navigate the legal landscape when setting up your pet screening policies. Here’s what you need to know:
Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals (ESA): Under the Fair Housing Act, tenants with disabilities have the right to live with service animals or ESAs, regardless of the property’s pet policy. These animals cannot be denied through regular pet screening. However, you can still screen other pets as long as the process is fair and consistent.
Stay Fair and Consistent: Avoid discriminating against any tenants—especially those with disabilities. Apply the same pet screening policy to all applicants to maintain compliance with Fair Housing laws. To stay safe, document every step of the screening process and make sure your policies are consistent.
Keep in mind that these are just general tips and that it’s always a good idea to talk with a legal professional for more detailed region-specific advice.
Tips for Implementing a Pet Screening Policy
If you’re ready to create or improve your pet screening process, here are some helpful tips:
Keep it Clear and Simple: The simpler your pet policy, the better. Outline clear rules on what types of pets are allowed, any size or breed restrictions, and if there are additional fees or deposits for pet owners. By making these details easy to find, you’ll avoid confusion and encourage compliance.
Add Pet Questions to Your Application: Include pet-related questions right in your rental application. This way, you’ll know upfront whether applicants have pets, making the screening process smoother and more efficient from the get-go.
Consider Pet Deposits or Insurance: To further protect your property, require a pet deposit or ask tenants to obtain pet insurance. This ensures that any damages caused by pets are covered, offering peace of mind for both you and the tenant.
Leverage Technology: Using online platforms for pet screening can help you stay organized and makes it easier to properly assess all pets. These services often generate pet profiles and help you keep track of important documents, making the whole process faster and easier.
One great tool that makes screening easier for both property managers and tenants is the aptly named PetScreening. The software covers most of the more resource-intensive part of working with renters with pets and it even integrates with popular property management software platforms such as Buildium.
Why Pet Screening Matters
Pet screening is more than just an added task—it’s a smart, proactive step that benefits property managers, tenants, and pets alike. It helps protect your property, fosters better tenant relationships, and can even boost tenant retention. As pet ownership continues to rise, embracing a straightforward and effective pet screening policy will help you maintain high property standards and attract responsible pet owners.
By implementing pet screening, you invest in both the short- and long-term success of your rental business.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is pet screening and why is it important?
Pet screening is the process of evaluating pets to ensure they fit well in a rental property. This process typically includes checking the pet’s health, behavior, and history of aggression or disturbances. Pet screening is essential because it helps protect property from potential damage, maintains peace among tenants, and promotes a clear understanding of pet policies, thereby improving tenant satisfaction and retention.
Can I charge a pet deposit or require pet insurance?
Yes, property managers can charge a pet deposit or require tenants to obtain pet insurance. A pet deposit provides a financial safeguard against potential damages caused by pets, while pet insurance can cover liabilities and further protect the property. These measures give both the property manager and the tenant have peace of mind.
Are service animals and emotional support animals subject to pet screening?
No, service animals and emotional support animals (ESAs) are not subject to regular pet screening under the Fair Housing Act. Tenants with disabilities have the right to live with these animals regardless of the property’s pet policy. However, other pets owned by the tenant can still be screened, provided the process is fair and consistent.
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