Top 5 Practices for Managing Pet-Owning Residents

Effective property management includes providing a welcoming and inclusive environment for all residents, including those with pets. As pet ownership at rental properties is becoming increasingly common, managing tenants with pets requires a thoughtful and proactive approach. In this blog post, we will explore five best practices on how to manage tenants with pets well. By implementing these strategies, you can ensure a harmonious living experience for all residents while promoting responsible pet ownership.

Establish Clear Pet Policies

To promote a positive community environment, avoid disputes, and ensure responsible pet ownership at rental properties, set clear pet policies. Start by clearly communicating your expectations regarding pet ownership to both prospective and current residents. Include the pet policies in the lease agreement and make sure residents are aware of them before moving in. Clearly outline any restrictions on the number of pets allowed, breed or size limitations, and guidelines for pet behavior, noise, and waste management.

Familiarize yourself with local regulations and laws related to pet ownership in rental properties. Some municipalities may have specific rules regarding pet licensing, vaccinations, or restrictions on certain breeds.

Moreover, establish a transparent fee structure for pet-related expenses. This may include a pet deposit or a monthly pet fee to cover potential damages or additional cleaning required. At ExactEstate, you can quickly and safely collect online payments while allowing your residents to easily check their balances.

Regularly review and update your pet policies to address any evolving needs or concerns as well. Seek feedback from residents and property staff to identify any areas that may require modification or clarification. This demonstrates your commitment to maintaining a pet-friendly environment that meets the needs of all residents.

Implement a Pet Screening Process

A thorough pet screening process allows you to evaluate the suitability of both pets and their owners for your property. Require residents with pets to complete a comprehensive pet application that includes vital information such as breed, size, vaccinations, and previous rental references.

Requesting references from previous landlords can provide insights into how well the pet was cared for, whether it caused any damage, and if the owner followed pet-related rules and regulations. This evaluation helps ensure that pet owners are committed to maintaining a clean, safe, and well-behaved pet within the rental property.

Moreover, implementing a pet screening process helps identify any potential risks associated with certain pets. For example, a history of aggressive behavior or excessive noise complaints may raise concerns about the pet's impact on the safety and well-being of other residents. By conducting a thorough screening, you can make informed decisions and take appropriate measures to minimize risks and maintain a secure environment.

ExactEstate’s tenant screening feature complements the pet screening process by providing a comprehensive solution for evaluating potential residents. You can quickly access important information such as credit history, rental references, and criminal background checks. Hence, you can ensure that you’re welcoming the most qualified tenants to your property.

Provide Pet-friendly Amenities

Learning how to care for a pet at an apartment includes providing pet-friendly amenities. For example, create designated pet areas, like a fenced-in dog park where pets can engage in physical activity and pet owners can also connect with one another.

Install pet waste stations throughout the property to encourage responsible pet waste disposal. These stations typically include waste bags and trash bins, making it convenient for pet owners to clean up after their pets. If your property has outdoor space, consider creating pet-friendly trails or walkways where residents can take their pets for walks or enjoy leisurely strolls together.

Furthermore, provide educational resources on responsible pet ownership, pet behavior tips, and local pet-friendly resources to support your residents. Establish clear communication channels to keep residents informed about pet-friendly amenities and guidelines.

You can maximize our resident portal at ExactEstate. With just a click of a button, you can send online notifications to any resident. At the same time, your residents can quickly communicate their concerns or send work orders.

Cultivate a Sense of Community

Knowing how to manage tenants with pets includes cultivating a sense of community. Arrange social gatherings, such as barbecues, holiday parties, or game nights, where residents can mingle and get to know one another. Consider incorporating pet-friendly activities or themes into these events to ensure inclusivity for pet owners.

Moreover, create opportunities for pet owners to connect with each other through a resident pet network. This can be through online forums, social media groups, or even organizing pet playdates. Facilitating these connections allows pet owners to share experiences, seek advice, and build friendships based on their common love for animals.

Show support for pet-related initiatives by partnering with local animal shelters, rescue organizations, or hosting adoption drives. By aligning your property with these causes, you demonstrate your commitment to animal welfare and community engagement. This not only benefits pets in need but also strengthens the sense of community within your property.

Conduct Regular Pet Inspections and Assessments

Regular pet inspections and assessments help ensure that pets residing at your property are well-cared for and in compliance with established pet policies. You can conduct these inspections annually or semi-annually, depending on the property's policies and local regulations. Clearly communicate the inspection schedule to residents in advance to ensure their cooperation and compliance.

During inspections, look for signs of neglect, malnourishment, or any health issues that may require attention. Confirm that pets are up to date with vaccinations and necessary veterinary care. Check if pets are being kept within approved areas, such as designated pet-friendly zones or units. Confirm that the number and types of pets are in accordance with the property's guidelines.

After each pet inspection, provide residents with feedback regarding the condition of their pets and any areas for improvement. Offer recommendations on pet care, training resources, or local services that may benefit the resident and their pet. When it comes to your property maintenance needs, ExactEstate allows you to assign urgency to your work orders, so that the most crucial items are addressed first.

Moreover, keep thorough records of each pet inspection, including observations, recommendations, and any necessary follow-up actions. Documenting these findings helps track the progress of pet owners' compliance, identify any recurring issues, and maintain a historical record for reference.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to care for a pet at an apartment includes establishing clear pet policies, implementing a pet screening process, providing pet-friendly amenities, cultivating a sense of community, and conducting regular pet inspections. Following these best practices create an ideal living environment that caters to both pet owners and non-pet owners. 

To streamline and enhance your property management processes, consider leveraging the advanced features of ExactEstate. From resident portals for seamless communication and resident engagement to robust tenant screening capabilities, ExactEstate offers a comprehensive solution. To see how ExactEstate can transform your property management operations, request a demo today.