Larger Renter Pool:

In Boise, allowing pets in rental properties can significantly expand your potential tenant pool. With a growing number of pet owners seeking homes that welcome their four-legged friends, allowing pets in rentals opens doors to a broader range of renters. This is particularly important to remember when considering the tenant pool of "quality renters". It's much better to place a quality tenant with a pet than a bad tenant without a pet. The bad tenant will cause you far more problems and costs.

Pet Rent and Pet Deposits:

To mitigate any potential risks associated with pets, implementing pet rent and deposits ensures added protection for Boise landlords. These fees help cover any damages that may occur during a tenant's occupancy, providing peace of mind while accommodating furry residents. It is common to charge refundable and/or non-refundable deposits, sometimes referred to as a pet fee. The average non-refundable deposit or pet fee in Boise is about $200, while the average pet rent in Boise is around $50 per pet, per month.

Happier, Responsible, Long-Term Tenants:

Studies show that pet-friendly rental properties often foster happier, more responsible tenants. Pet owners tend to be more invested in maintaining their living spaces and are generally more responsible. Plus, for many pet owners, finding a rental property that accommodates their beloved companions can be a deciding factor in renewing leases and fostering long-term relationships. So allowing renters with dogs, can enhance tenant satisfaction and increase overall retention rates. If you haven't read our post on the power and importance of tenant retention, read that here.

Allergies and Disturbance to Neighbors:

While pets bring joy to many, it's essential to consider the other tenants affected by allowing pets in rental homes. Balancing pet-friendly policies with respect to neighbors is key, while implementing thorough cleaning protocols between tenants can help alleviate allergy concerns. Clearly outline expectations regarding noise and behavior in pet policies and addendums so as to minimize disturbances and maintain a harmonious living environment for all.

Pet Screening, Policies and Addendums:

Implementing rigorous pet screening processes ensures that only well-behaved animals are welcomed into rental properties. This can include documentation of vaccinations, behavioral assessments, and references from previous landlords. Boise landlords sometimes charge a pet screening fee of about $25 as well as place restrictions on  the age, weight, breed and number of pets allowed. 

Pet policies or addendums are another vital part of the process, once you have decided to allow pets in your Boise investment property. These will outline all the expectations and responsibilities in writing so that any disputes can be handled swiftly. The policies often include vaccination requirements, no history of aggression, photos and description of each pet, etc. These will also be as enforceable as clauses within the main lease. Meaning any breach of the policy, can result in a termination of the lease.

Assistance Animals:

Legally, assistance animals (including emotional support animals) are not considered pets. So, it's important to remember that all policies and procedures put in place will not apply to them. This has been a contentious issue over the years, mainly due to the ease of acquiring the necessary documentation. So much so, that many landlords believe they are forced to allow pets, as tenants will simply apply and receive the certification for their animal, regardless of their needs or disability. Obviously, this is the minority of cases and there has been tightening of restrictions recently. Either way, its important to remember this exception for assistance animals and to not discriminate against applicants or tenants because of their assistance animal.

Embracing pets in Boise rental properties, if done correctly, can be greatly beneficial for landlords. The increased renter pool, higher rent and greater tenant retention are all massive positives. On the other side of the coin, a weaker renter pool, routine checks that tenants aren't sneaking in pets and the lack of protection if they are, means not allowing pets in your rental home may be fighting a losing battle. By implementing thoughtful pet policies and being open and clear, landlords can strike the perfect balance between accommodating furry companions and preserving the state of their properties. So, should you allow pets in your rental? In Boise, the answer is a resounding "yes!"

Are you ready to welcome renters with pets into your Boise rental properties? Contact us today to learn more about creating pet-friendly leasing options that work for you and your tenants.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, tax, real estate, or investment advice. Because laws, regulations, and market conditions change and each situation is unique, you should consult a qualified professional before making any decisions based on this content. Bluebird Property Management makes no guarantee as to the accuracy, completeness, or applicability of the information provided.