Many renters have pets, and properties that allow them often fill faster. A written pet policy sets expectations before move-in.
What the policy covers
- Which pets are allowed, how many, and any size or breed limits your insurance requires.
- Pet deposit, one-time fee or monthly pet rent, as allowed by law.
- Vaccination and license records, and cleanup and noise rules.
- Responsibility for damage beyond the deposit.
Assistance animals are not pets
Under fair housing laws, service animals and emotional support animals are generally not pets. A housing provider usually must make a reasonable accommodation, and generally cannot charge pet fees or pet rent for them, though the tenant remains responsible for damage. Florida law also addresses documentation for emotional support animals. Handle each request carefully and consistently.
Our pet fee calculator shows what a pet policy adds over a lease.
General information, not legal advice. Talk to an attorney about assistance animal requests.
This article is general information, not legal, tax or regulatory advice. Rules change; confirm current requirements with the responsible agency or a licensed professional.
