The Landlord's Guide to Pet Policies: Fees, Deposits, and ESAs
Should you allow pets in your rental property? Learn the difference between pets, security deposits, and Emotional Support Animals.
Allowing pets expands your potential tenant pool by over 70%, but it also introduces property wear-and-tear risks. Managing pets successfully comes down to policy structure.
1. Pet Screening and Fees
Require a dedicated pet application detailing the animal's breed, age, weight, and vaccination status. Charge a reasonable, legally permitted pet deposit or monthly "pet rent" to offset extra cleaning costs.
2. Service Animals and ESAs
Emotional Support Animals (ESAs) and Service Animals are not classified as pets under federal law. You cannot charge pet fees, pet rent, or pet deposits for them, and traditional breed restrictions do not apply.
3. Legal Documentation for ESAs
Landlords have the right to request a legitimate, official documentation letter from a licensed mental health professional treating the tenant. This must verify the genuine need for the accommodation.