Pet Policies

By Philip Shea, Associate Editor

This month, MHN teamed up with research and consulting services firm Kingsley Associates to pinpoint the best policies for tenants with furry companions. While a wide range of issues come into play with this aspect of property management, it appears foremost issues on residents’ minds include the fees associated with owning a pet, where pets are allowed to roam on the property, and the policies pertaining to waste disposal. Allowing your tenants to own pets is a great way to ensure retention and attract new leases, yet setting proper guidelines is key to maintaining a cohesive community and respect for all residents. Additionally, making sure that the pets themselves feel at home is a good way to foster good relations with the owners.

“The noise from barking dogs is too easily heard in other apartments. The dog next door was constantly barking and, even with the doors closed, the noise was really loud.” —Northborough, Mass.

“The community advertises pet friendly yet has no park or area for the animals to run or be walked.” —Plymouth, Mass.

“A pet fee when moving in, and then an additional $10 a month pet fee, is not really necessary. It should be one time only or monthly—but not both.” —Apopka, Fla.

“There has been a lot of drama surrounding pets and where they can, and can’t, relieve themselves. As one of the responsible pet owners, this has been frustrating because it makes me feel like our pets are not welcome.” —North Seattle, Wash.

“Residents should not be allowed to kennel their dogs on their porches during the workday.” —Issaquah, Wash.

“I am thankful that my apartment community has a pet-friendly environment.” —Atlanta

“I would suggest residents be better monitored for adherence to pet policies (too much dog waste at various places around the property).” —San Francisco

“We love the cleanliness of the complex as well as the pet-friendly atmosphere.” —Alexandria, Va.

“I wish management gave me more advance notice about entering my apartment so I can make arrangements for my cat while I’m at work.” —Braintree, Mass.

“In the future, you should let tenants know the previous tenants had pets. My wife is allergic to cat hair. The brevious owner had an abundance of short pet hair in the carpet.” —Temecula, Calif.

“This will not deter me, but I have many friends with very well behaved dogs on your dog breed X list. These people are respectable, as are their pets. I would see what could be changes, and be more picky about the pets on [an] individual basis. Just like people, pets are usually easy to read if you pay attention.” —Austin