One of the most common – and costly – mistakes I see DIY landlords make is simple:
They don’t allow pets.
On the surface, it feels like a risk management decision. Avoid damage, avoid complaints, avoid liability. But in today’s rental market, a strict “no pets” policy is often doing the opposite – it’s shrinking your tenant pool, extending vacancy, and leaving money on the table.
The Reality: Most Renters Have Pets
If you exclude pets, you’re not filtering out a small niche – you’re excluding a significant portion of the market.
- Nearly 6 in 10 renters now have at least one pet
- Some surveys have found that over 70% of renters are pet owners
- Across all U.S. households, about 66% own a pet
And perhaps more importantly:
Pet policies are often a deciding factor in where renters choose to live
In practical terms, a “no pets” policy can eliminate half or more of your qualified applicants before they even consider your property.
Why “No Pets” Backfires
1. You Reduce Demand (and Increase Vacancy)
Properties that allow pets attract more interest, more showings, and more applications. In fact, pet-friendly listings often receive more views and rent faster than those that don’t
Less demand = longer vacancy = lost income.
2. You May Be Filtering Out Great Tenants
Pet ownership is not a proxy for irresponsibility.
Many pet owners:
- Stay longer (moving with pets is harder)
- Are willing to pay more for the right home
- Treat their home as a long-term living situation – not a short stop
In other words, the exact profile most landlords want.
3. The Risk Is Manageable (and Often Overstated)
Yes, pets can cause damage. But so can people.
The key is not avoiding pets – it’s screening and managing the risk properly.
At our company, pet screening is part of the tenant screening process. We evaluate:
- Pet type, breed, and size
- Vaccination and health records
- Behavioral history
- Prior rental references involving pets
This allows us to approve responsible pet owners, not just “anyone with an animal.”
Pets Can Actually Increase Your Revenue
Allowing pets isn’t just about filling vacancies – it can improve your financial performance.
Most landlords offset risk through:
- Pet deposits or fees (often $200-$300+)
- Monthly pet rent (commonly ~$30-$50/month)
Over the course of a lease, that can add up to hundreds – or thousands – of additional revenue per tenant.
And because pet-friendly inventory is still constrained in many markets, renters are often willing to pay it.
Important Distinction: Pets vs. Service Animals
It’s critical to distinguish between pets and service animals and emotional support animals.
- Service animals are not pets
- They are protected under fair housing laws
- You cannot charge pet fees or deny them based on a no-pet policy
A blanket “no pets” policy does not exempt landlords from these requirements – and misunderstanding this can create legal exposure.
The Bottom Line
A strict no-pet policy may feel like playing it safe – but in today’s market, it’s often a strategic mistake.
Allowing pets (with the right screening and structure):
- Expands your applicant pool
- Reduces vacancy time
- Increases rental income
- Attracts longer-term tenants
The key is not whether to allow pets.
It’s how to do it professionally and responsibly.
This content is provided for general informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute financial, legal, tax, or investment advice. Readers should consult with licensed professionals regarding their specific circumstances.
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
