Creating a rental that stands out in the competitive Austin market often means going beyond the basics. One feature tenants are prioritizing? A pet-friendly policy. With Austin's outdoor culture and dog-loving reputation, it’s no surprise that renters frequently search for homes where their pets are welcome.
While welcoming animals can raise concerns, a well-crafted pet agreement is a powerful tool. It lets you expand your applicant pool, set enforceable rules, and collect additional income—all while protecting your property. If you're weighing the options, you might first want to review the pros and cons of allowing pets to better understand how it could affect your bottom line.
Key Takeaways
- Pet-friendly homes often rent faster and attract longer-term tenants.
- Clear rules and fees can prevent damage and disputes.
- Service animals and ESAs require different legal treatment from regular pets.
- Preventive maintenance strategies reduce future pet-related issues.
- Lease language must outline expectations for full protection and compliance.
Why Pet-Friendly Properties Appeal to Austin Tenants
Austin renters aren’t just looking for a place to live—they’re looking for a home that fits their lifestyle. And for many, that includes a four-legged companion. Families, remote workers, and young professionals often treat their pets like family members, and they’re willing to pay more or wait longer to find a pet-accommodating rental.
Top benefits of allowing pets in your Austin rental:
- Higher inquiry volume: Pet-friendly listings receive more attention online and generate more applications.
- Lower turnover: Tenants with pets are more likely to renew their lease to avoid repeating the search process.
- Extra revenue: Charging pet rent or a non-refundable pet fee can help cover cleaning or maintenance costs.
Rather than banning pets outright, landlords can implement smart policies that give tenants peace of mind while maintaining property standards.
How to Reduce Risk Without Saying No
Many landlords are hesitant to allow pets due to the potential for damage or complaints. Issues like scratched floors, strong odors, or excessive noise are common concerns. But banning all pets could also mean missing out on responsible tenants who are willing to follow clear rules and pay fair fees.
The solution? Create a written policy that addresses your concerns before problems arise. Establishing rules around pet behavior, property expectations, and fees can make your lease stronger—not riskier.
Building a Pet Policy That Protects and Performs
A strong pet policy starts with proper screening and is reinforced through fair restrictions, transparent fees, and clear lease language.
Start With Pet Screening
Screen pets with the same care as tenants. Gather the following:
- Breed, age, weight, and species
- Vaccination and registration records
- Proof of spay or neuter
- Behavioral history (if available)
- Current photo or short video of the pet
This process helps identify high-risk animals before they move in and gives you documentation to support any future lease enforcement.
Structure Reasonable Fees and Deposits
Charging fees helps mitigate risk and offset wear and tear. Common structures include:
- Pet rent: $25–$50 per month, per pet
- Non-refundable pet fee: $150–$350
- Refundable pet deposit: $200–$500, depending on size or breed
Be sure these charges are written into the lease and collected before move-in.
Spell Out Rules in the Lease
A pet addendum should detail the tenant’s responsibilities and your expectations. Typical rules include:
- Pets must be leashed in shared spaces
- No aggressive behavior or persistent noise
- Owners must clean up waste immediately
- Pets cannot be left alone on patios or balconies
Setting boundaries from the start helps prevent gray areas or future disputes.
Set Boundaries Without Limiting Demand
Being pet-friendly doesn’t mean removing all restrictions. You can still establish conditions such as:
- Limiting the number of pets per unit
- Prohibiting high-risk breeds or exotic animals
- Weight or size restrictions for animals in apartments
These limitations help protect the property and maintain livability for other tenants. Just be sure they’re applied consistently and follow Fair Housing regulations.
Understanding Your Legal Responsibilities With Assistance Animals
It’s essential to distinguish between household pets and assistance animals. Emotional support animals (ESAs) and service animals are not pets in the eyes of the law and are protected by the Fair Housing Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act.
You may NOT:
- Charge pet-related fees for service animals or ESAs
- Deny tenancy based on breed, size, or type
- Request personal medical details
You MAY:
- Request documentation from a healthcare professional verifying the need for an ESA
- Enforce standard lease rules around cleanliness and behavior
- Require tenants to cover costs for property damage
Following these guidelines ensures you stay compliant and avoid legal complications.
Pet-Proofing Your Property With Smart Maintenance
Small upgrades can prevent big problems. Durable materials and regular inspections are a landlord’s best defense against pet damage.
Maintenance strategies to consider:
- Install LVP or tile floors for easy cleaning and scratch resistance
- Use satin or semi-gloss paint to make scuffs and marks easier to wipe
- Require flea treatment in carpeted rentals before move-out
- Conduct mid-lease inspections to identify potential concerns early
- Encourage pet gates or crates to contain animals when unattended
If you're managing a multi-unit commercial space or larger complex, these property maintenance strategies can help ensure long-term durability—even with pet tenants.
Addressing Unauthorized Animals
Even with a clear pet policy in place, some tenants may bring in animals without permission. It’s important to respond promptly and professionally.
Steps to take:
- Politely remind the tenant of the lease policy
- Offer to screen the pet and add it to the lease
- Collect any applicable fees and update the documentation
- Keep written records of all communications
- Take appropriate action if the tenant refuses to comply
Enforcing policies calmly but firmly shows you take the lease agreement seriously.
Responsible Pet Owners Make Excellent Tenants
There’s a growing body of evidence that pet owners tend to be more responsible, communicative, and committed to long-term housing. When properly screened and guided by a clear pet policy, they’re less likely to cause problems—and more likely to stay put.
At PMI Austin Experts, we help landlords build leasing strategies that attract and retain top-tier tenants. From customized pet agreements to tenant retention tips, our team ensures every detail of your lease is working to protect your investment.
Secure Stronger Leases With Smarter Pet Policies
Offering a pet-friendly rental in Austin isn’t just a courtesy—it’s a strategic advantage. With the right screening process, legal compliance, and preventative measures, pets can help you fill vacancies faster and build stronger tenant relationships.
🐾 Need help implementing a reliable pet screening process or updating your lease language? Explore our tenant screening services and see how PMI Austin Experts can support your leasing goals.
FAQs
Can I charge pet rent in Texas?
Yes, Texas landlords are allowed to charge monthly pet rent, non-refundable pet fees, and security deposits for pets. Assistance animals are exempt.
Do I have to allow pets in my Austin rental?
No, landlords are not required to allow pets. However, you must make reasonable accommodations for service animals and ESAs.
What documentation can I ask for an ESA?
You may request a letter from a licensed healthcare provider confirming the tenant’s need for the animal. You cannot ask for details about the condition.
How do I enforce pet-related lease violations?
Start with a documented warning. If the issue continues, follow up with lease enforcement procedures, which may include fines or notices of non-compliance.
Are breed restrictions legal in Austin?
Yes, for pets—but not for service animals or ESAs. Make sure any breed restrictions in your lease do not apply to legally protected assistance animals.
