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According to data published by MarketWatch, 86.9 million Americans own a pet.
Allowing pets in rental properties may not seem ideal, but there are some benefits to doing so. Consider the pros and cons before making a decision.
However, you can't make the same kind of decision for service or emotional support animals for legal reasons. So, how do these different types of animals differ from the average pet?
Keep reading this guide to find out.
Service Animals
Service animals undergo special training so that they can perform specific tasks for their owners. These owners generally have certain limitations and their service animals can help them with daily tasks.
Guide dogs are a common example - they're trained to guide people with impaired vision. Similarly, people with hearing impairments might have a dog that can identify certain sounds for them.
Because these animals are required, landlords can't refuse them. If a tenant applies, you can't deny them simply because you don't want their service animal in your property.
If, however, there are any incidents (such as property damage), you may be able to seek compensation. In particularly bad cases, a landlord could potentially have a service animal removed legally.
Emotional Support Animals
Emotional support animals are similar to service animals in that they assist their owners, though they do this in a different way. Rather than performing specific tasks, they provide support for people who suffer from certain mental health issues. Some typical examples include:
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Depression
- PTSD
- ADHD
Both service animals and emotional support animals fall under the umbrella of "assistance animals". As such, the same laws apply for both, so you can't deny a tenant just because they have a support animal. Again, you may be able to have a support animal removed under extreme circumstances.
Pets
Unlike service and support animals, pets aren't considered "assistance animals". Therefore, the same laws don't apply.
Landlords are free to decide their own pet policy. You can choose whether or not to allow pets in any rental property you own. There are several reasons to do so, such as:
- Access to a larger tenant pool
- A potentially higher rental income
- Pet owners often look for longer tenancies
At the same time, you should consider the drawbacks of this:
- Pets can cause property damage
- They may disturb neighbors
- There could be insurance implications
Some real estate investors only allow certain pets, while others may refuse them outright. It's up to you to make the best decision, however, you should be sure to go over the pet policy during your screening process with every applicant.
Allowing Pets in Your Rental Properties
While you can't deny service or support animals, you can make your own decision about pets in your rental properties. It's often best to speak to a professional property manager. Their understanding of the real estate market can help you determine which option is best for you.
DJC Management is a leading real estate management company based in Portland, ME. We have over 15 years of dedicated property management experience and can help you determine the best approach to any real estate assets you own. Take a look at our property management page to find out more about our services.
