The essentials
- Service and emotional support animals aren’t pets — That means that they aren’t screened the way someone’s pet would be during the rental process.
- Meeting pets ahead of time comes in handy — This allows both landlords and renters to feel comfortable with the pet residing within the community.
- Genetics and environment play a part — Pet behavior is influenced by much more than breed, so landlords should consider dog breeds with a bad rap.
1. Reduce the chances of bite incidences
Situations that result in animals biting other pets or humans are scary, and while they can happen without cause and at random, landlords can reduce the chances. One way is through pet registration. You may be wondering why it matters and how it helps. Registration allows landlords to weed out owners with potentially or proven to be aggressive pets. Pet registration and screening allows landlords to ask if dogs have a history of unprovoked biting and if they do, landlords can reserve the right not to rent to that family.
Regardless of whether your pet is aggressive or not, we always recommend having pet liability insurance. This type of insurance can cover pet-related property damage or injuries to a third party and is usually an option within your regular renter’s insurance. After all, having a pet increases liability exposure, and having insurance that is particular to your pet can protect you and your pet in the event of an incident.
2. Health of the community
There are a handful of zoonotic diseases associated with our pets—rabies, fleas, toxoplasmosis, etc. —that can be spread from animal to animal and to humans. Requiring documentation for all pets living on the property can significantly reduce the risk of exposure, especially when requirements for certain vaccinations are implemented. Not only does this limit a landlord’s liability, but it also protects all tenants—four-legged or otherwise. Here are some threats to four-legged friends and two-legged tenants when pets aren’t documented and they don’t receive appropriate preventatives.
Dr. Bruce ArmstrongEasily spread zoonotic disease would include ringworm, sarcoptic mange, from direct contact with an infected pet. Also, other common organisms, such as roundworms and hookworms, can spread through contact or ingestion from sandboxes and areas where pets relieve themselves due to fecal contamination and in heavier populated sites. These diseases are more easily transmitted if pets are left to their own devices.
3. Planning ahead
When an apartment community has ample data on the number of pets, their breeds, and pet sizes, expanding amenities is easier than ever. How exactly? If a landlord has a database that shows how many dogs are in their community and how long their leases are, they can plan ahead for construction for a large dog run in the building or install new waste stations to accommodate an influx of dogs.
Additionally, this sort of information helps new tenants choose where to live. If a landlord knows that tenants who are pet owners have a high retention rate, they can convey that message in their marketing so prospective tenants know that other pet owners like the community enough to stay.
Tips for registering and documenting tenants’ pets
Open dialogue between landlords and tenants should be the priority, especially when approaching pet screening. We break down some of our top tips for a smooth process.
- Understand local ordinances and laws. Stay current on what you can and can’t require from a tenant in terms of information.
- Have a pet policy. Pet policies clearly outline what is and isn’t allowed and what potential consequences may be should any rules be broken.
- Prioritize plain language. Leases and other legal jargon can confuse potential tenants. Have documentation that is easy to understand so that no miscommunication occurs.
- Have a meeting. Meeting tenants and pets during the pet screening can help build trust and rapport.
- Set clear expectations. A confusing process benefits no one. Have clearly defined steps for pet screening and registration.
Frequently asked questions
What happens during a pet screening?
It’s essentially a background check for your pet. This may include landlords asking to meet pets, requesting behavioral testing, reviewing records, and asking additional questions.
What is the pet liability clause?
This is a type of insurance that owners can get that protects them financially in the event that their pet injures or damages someone or something. It can cover things like medical bills for the injured party, court costs up to a coverage limit, and legal defense fees if the owner is sued.
What is a pet interview for an apartment?
This is another phrase for a pet screening, which confirms that a pet is well suited to an apartment community.
