Should You Allow Pets in Your Rental? Here’s the Real Cost—And Opportunity
When landlords ask me whether they should allow pets in their rental properties, I usually respond with questions of my own: Do you want more applicants, longer tenancies, and increased rental income? Because statistically speaking, that’s what you’re leaving on the table by saying “no.”
Yes, pets can cause damage. Yes, they can be noisy. But with the right systems in place—such as smart upgrades, clear policies, and thorough screening—allowing pets can go from a liability to a competitive advantage.
Let’s unpack the risks, the benefits, and the practical steps to making pet-friendly rentals work for your bottom line.
The Risks: Real but Manageable
Landlords have valid concerns that deserve to be addressed, not dismissed.
These risks are real, but they’re not inevitable. More importantly, they can be mitigated through planning and proactive management.
The Opportunity: Demand, Dollars, and Duration
Now, here’s what many landlords overlook.
In other words, while there are costs involved, the revenue upside—if managed well—often outweighs them.
Property Improvements That Protect Your Investment
If you’re opening your property to pets, strategic updates can safeguard it from unnecessary wear and tear:
These improvements mitigate damage and appeal to quality tenants who are serious about caring for their pets and your property.
Breed Considerations: Screen, Don't Ban
Breed-specific policies are often a point of contention. Some landlords adopt blanket bans on certain dog breeds, while others welcome all pets unconditionally. The right answer usually lies in the middle.
These breeds tend to have higher energy levels and, in some cases, a more complex risk profile.
That said, every animal is different. Rather than focus exclusively on breed, implement a screening process that assesses individual behaviour, temperament, and training. Ask for a reference from the last Landlord.
Implementing a Smart Pet Policy
A well-structured policy ensures that expectations are clear from day one. Here’s what we recommend:
Condos & Strata: Know the Limits
If you’re managing a condo or apartment unit, be aware that building bylaws or strata councils may have their own pet restrictions. Always confirm what’s permitted before approving a tenant with pets. Smaller, quieter animals—cats or small dogs—tend to be better suited to these environments.
Service Animals: A Legal Distinction
This is important: Service animals are not considered pets under Canadian law. Landlords are legally obligated to accommodate tenants who require a certified service animal—and, in some jurisdictions, emotional support animals (ESAs) as well.
You cannot deny a tenant or charge additional fees in these cases. When in doubt, consult a legal professional.
Where Property Management Makes a Difference
Managing a pet-friendly rental requires structure and follow-through. A professional property management team—like ours at Hope Street—can help you:
With expert oversight, you can allow pets while minimizing risks and maximizing income.
Allowing pets has its challenges, but it’s also one of the most effective ways to expand your market, increase your income, and build stronger relationships with long-term tenants. With the right infrastructure and support, it can be a win for everyone involved.
At Hope Street, we help landlords make informed decisions backed by real data, proven systems, and over two decades of property management experience.
Considering allowing pets? Try our Pet-Friendly Rental Income Calculator to see what your property could earn—and how to do it right.