Should I rent to a tenant with Cats?

Question

Should I rent to a tenant with Cats?

Answer 1

Its ultimately  up to you - I manage several properties that allow pets and have had very few problems. I have had more problems with large dogs than any other kind of pet.  Small dogs and cats are usually not a problem.

Charge a large pet deposit (at lease $300) and make sure that they understand that the Pet Deposit can be used to treat for fleas and any carpet cleaning or repair that is needed after they move out.

Answer 2

yes --most cats are litter box trained and are not destructive --chargea pet deposit that is none refundable though

Answer 3

you do not have to and are not forced to but if you do, Make sure you put a clause in your lease agreement that ensures if there was any repairs required, cleaning services that the tenant will pay for this amount/ services. read it/ go over it with them and get a signature on the agreement. that way it can hold up in court in the worst case scenerio. I would also collect a pet deposit fee which will be either refunded or applied to the bill when the tenant moves out. (cleaning services/ repairs/ other....If you want to be more cautious, ask the tenant for shot records for the cat and explain to them that they must not become a nussance (sp?) to the neighbors and if they accumulate this number of complaints they will be forced to give up the pet or move out. go over your insurance policy and strongly recommend to the tenant to go over theres. the last thing you want is a kitty escapes and bites/ stratches a kid on/ or off the property and then the tenant and possibly you being sued. being a landlord is a great responsibility and you have to cover/ protect your self, your assets. but again have it in writing with a signature!

Answer 4

How many cats?    I would limit it to 2, otherwise they tend to p**s everywhere in some sort of gross marking ritual.

You will have to replace the carpet, cat p**s does not shampoo out.

Answer 5

Be sure to require they have all their shots and be licensed if your city requires it. Be sure other current tenants are not allergic. Increase the security deposit substantially. Price a professional ost move-out clean-up and add that as a non-refundable fee.

Answer 6

This is what a management agent told me several years ago.  Try to get a look at the tenant's car.  If his/her car is a mess, then that is how they will treat the apartment.  If the car is full of fast food wrapppers and soda bottles, they probably wouldn't take great care of a litter box!!

Answer 7

why not as long as the cats are not messy and they take care of the place it should be fine

Answer 8

This is your option.It is your right to refuse to rent to a tenant with pets. Your lease can have a clause forbidding pets.

Cats are generally guiet domestic creatures who permit you to share their home with you.

However there are times that there's a lot of howling. Cat odor can be pervasive as well. Other tenants may not like cats, may be allergic to them. Cats sometimes like to explore and are curious. Other tenants may not welcome occasional felline visitors, however loving and pleasant they may be.

Answer 9

I do. some of the best tenants in the world own cats.  They will damage your place.  Don't worry; it can all be fixed.  You will find something that works for you.   I never charge a "pet deposit" because it always ended up in an argument.  I now charge $25 per pet per month but i'd give a discount for 5.