Orlando Florida property management laws allow rental property owners to prohibit pets in their rental properties or only allow some types of pets. However, there can be a few exceptions for disabled tenants as well as those who need emotional support animals. Before you decide to allow pets in your single-family rental property, make sure you first weigh the advantages and disadvantages of this in order to avoid future disputes with your tenants. Here’s a look at some of the pros and cons of allowing pets in your rental property.
Pros
Some of the benefits of allowing pets in a rental property include, among others:
High occupancy rate
According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), about 67% of American households not only own some type of pet, but are also emotionally attached to them, which makes it difficult for them to part with their pets. With that in mind, allowing pets can attract more tenants to your property, keeping the occupancy rate high all year round. Additionally, there will be higher chances of pet owners renewing their leases at the end of their lease periods, because there aren’t too many other properties that allow pets.
Higher rent
By accepting pets in your single-family rental homes, you can charge a reasonable pet fee as well as higher rent without making tenants uncomfortable.
Responsible tenants
Typically, taking care of a pet requires hard work. For instance, you need to ensure that the pet does not damage your belongings or physically harm people. As such, many tenants that own pets are likely more responsible and may translate this behavior to their tenancy. Of course, there are always exceptions, so make sure you perform a thorough background check and talk to their previous landlords to learn more about the renters’ and their pets’ behavior.
Cons
Property damage
Pets can chew carpets, urinate on surfaces, destroy landscaping, break windows, or chew wood. Such damage can result in huge liability costs as well as high repair and replacement expenses. While charging a pet security deposit or “pet rent” can help cover these costs, it can be a hassle to have to perform so much maintenance.
Allergic reactions
According to the Mayo Clinic, any furry pet can cause allergic reactions such as skin rashes, coughing, sneezing, and itchy eyes. Other than the tenants, you, your family, and your neighbors will be vulnerable to such allergies if you allow tenants to keep pets. Also, ungroomed pets can produce foul odors that can disturb the peace of other tenants.
Injuries
Aggressive pets can sometimes pose a threat to other animals and tenants. This means that if you allow such pets in your single-family rental homes, there is a possibility that you may face lawsuits and liability claims. One way to prevent this, however, is to specify which breeds you won’t allow on your property. For example, you might consider prohibiting dogs such as Pitbulls and German Shepherds.
Noise
Most neighborhood residents probably want to enjoy some quiet in their homes, but that can sometimes be disrupted by barking or other noises caused by pets. This can result in complaints and neighborhood feuds.
Conclusion
There are many advantages and disadvantages to allowing pets in your single-family rental property. If you decide to allow pets on your property, you should consider imposing pet policies to ensure that your property stays clean and free of damage. Here at Specialized Property Management Orlando FL, we know how important it is to keep your property in good condition. If you aren’t sure whether allowing pets is a good idea or not, we can help you decide what will be the most beneficial for you and your rental property. Call us at 407-698-3322 or contact us online for more information.
