A pet policy is almost always a standard aspect of a leasing agreement for a residential space such as an apartment complex.
A pet policy is almost always a standard aspect of a leasing agreement for a residential space such as an apartment complex. While these policies are crucial, they do not always thoroughly outline expectations and rules when presented to a future tenant. For this reason, many pet policies are often perceived as vague with their terms, leading to misunderstandings with tenants down the road. As you are preparing for the new year ahead, consider how you can avoid this issue as a property manager by creating a clear and efficient set pet policy for 2019.
Begin with Asking the Right Questions
As you are meeting a prospective tenant before them signing a lease, it is also essential to meet their pet. An initial meeting will provide you with an opportunity to observe their pet’s behavior, along with the way in which the tenant is able to control and interact with them. In this meeting with your prospective tenant, consider asking these critical questions:
- Is your pet aggressive towards other humans or animals?
- Does your pet have a history of property damage?
- Who is responsible for your pet during the day?
- What is the protocol for your pet’s care when you are not at home?
By asking the right questions, you will be able to understand the history of your tenant’s pet and as well as the risks that the pet could potentially pose to other tenants in your building.
Consider Incorporating a Refundable Deposit into Your Policy
While this option varies by state, charging a refundable pet deposit in your pet policy may provide an additional incentive for your tenant to prevent property damage caused by their pet. Should you choose to utilize a refundable deposit, it is crucial to specify the details in your policy and outline the potential for a refund with good behavior. The specific amount that you charge should be a reasonable amount, but should also be significant enough to ensure the prospect of good pet behavior with a fair incentive.
Outline the Specifics of Permitted Pet Sizes and Breeds
As you create your pet policy, specifying your permitted pet sizes and breeds is a crucial step. In addition to those specifications, it is important to outline additional guidelines, including:
- Types of pets allowed
- Number of pets permitted
- Recorded pets only
- No-pets policy
Writing these specifications into your pet policy enables you to prepare for a variety of circumstances involving your tenants while accurately managing expectations for their pets.
Trust the Professionals at Clagett Enterprises for Your Realty Needs
If you’re looking for the perfect realtor for your property or a professional to assist you during your purchase of any home, you can rely on Clagett Enterprises. Clagett Enterprises is a full-service real estate company with almost 30 years of experience in the Frederick and Western Maryland area. For assistance with selling your home and getting the best possible price, contact us online or give us a call at 301-665-6009. To meet our team and see some of our beautiful homes, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Google+.