🐾 Pros and Cons of Being a Pet-Friendly Rental Property

Published: June 2025
By Derek Barksdale Founder of Military Mutual

Allowing pets in your rental property can open the door to a larger tenant pool—but it can also introduce risks. In today’s pet-loving culture, where over 66% of U.S. households own pets, deciding whether to make your rental pet-friendly is more important than ever.

Here’s a breakdown of the key pros and cons of renting to tenants with pets—so you can make a smart, informed decision for your property.

✅ Pros of Being a Pet-Friendly Rental

1. Larger Tenant Pool

Pet-friendly properties attract more renters, especially in competitive markets. Limiting your listing to pet-free households can drastically shrink your reach.

🔎 More applicants = less vacancy and more leasing flexibility.

2. Higher Rent Potential

Many pet owners are willing to pay more to live in a pet-friendly home. You can charge:

• Higher monthly rent

• Pet rent ($25–$50/month per pet)

• Non-refundable pet fees or deposits

💰 This added income can offset potential wear and tear.

3. Longer Tenant Retention

Pet owners tend to move less frequently, since pet-friendly rentals can be harder to find. That means fewer turnovers, less marketing, and more consistent income.

🛠️ Stable tenants reduce overall maintenance and vacancy costs.

4. Improved Tenant Relationships

Being flexible and accommodating often builds trust and goodwill with tenants. A pet-friendly policy can lead to more satisfied renters who are likely to renew leases and care for your property.

🤝 Tenants who feel valued often treat your property with more respect.

❌ Cons of Being a Pet-Friendly Rental

1. Potential Property Damage

Pets can cause damage, including:

• Scratched floors

• Stained carpets

• Chewed fixtures or doors

• Lingering pet odors

🛠️ Proper screening and a clear pet policy can help minimize risks.

2. Noise or Nuisance Complaints

Barking, howling, or aggressive behavior can lead to neighbor complaints or strained tenant relationships.

📋 Noise clauses and breed restrictions can help protect your rental community.

3. Allergy and Health Concerns

Future tenants may have allergies to pet dander, which can linger in carpets and vents—even after professional cleaning.

🧽 Be prepared for extra cleaning or replacement of carpets between tenants.

4. Liability Risks

Pets—especially large dogs—can create liability concerns if they injure someone or damage property. You could be held legally responsible.

Reduce risk by:

• Requiring renters insurance with pet liability coverage

• Creating clear pet addendums and behavior policies

• Limiting breeds, weight, or number of pets

⚖️ Always consult legal counsel when drafting your pet policy.

📝 Best Practices for Pet-Friendly Rentals

If you decide to allow pets, here are a few smart policies to implement:

• Pet screening applications (age, breed, training, vaccinations)

• Non-refundable pet fee + monthly pet rent

• Limit the number and size of pets

• Require renters insurance with pet liability coverage

• Include a detailed pet addendum in the lease

📂 Put everything in writing to avoid confusion or conflict later.

🐶 Final Thoughts: Should You Go Pet-Friendly?

Going pet-friendly can be a profitable move—but only with the right boundaries in place. Weigh your property's condition, location, and market demand. If you're prepared to screen pets and protect your investment, the pros can easily outweigh the cons.