Pets are often part of the package when tenants are searching for homes, and Dallas landlords who embrace this reality are positioning themselves for better returns. But creating a pet-friendly rental doesn’t mean accepting any animal without limits. It means having a strategic policy that protects your investment while giving tenants a reason to stay long term. With North Texas growing rapidly, pet ownership is rising too, and many renters will skip your property if pets aren’t allowed. That could mean longer vacancies and reduced revenue.
At PMI Alliance, we help rental property owners develop thoughtful, enforceable pet policies that reflect the realities of today’s market. If you’re still on the fence about allowing animals in your units, check out our blog about the pros and cons of allowing pets for more perspective.
Key Takeaways
- Pet-friendly policies attract more tenants and lower vacancy rates.
- Charging pet rent and deposits helps offset potential damage.
- Clear lease clauses set expectations and reduce conflict.
- Service animals and ESAs are legally protected and must be handled differently.
- Preventive maintenance can help reduce long-term wear and tear from pets.
Why More Dallas Landlords Are Saying Yes to Pets
Dallas is one of the fastest-growing metros in the country, and many new residents are relocating with pets. As a landlord, banning animals could limit your property’s visibility to a large portion of the rental market. Allowing pets (with limits) can lead to:
- Higher tenant retention: Pet owners tend to move less frequently.
- Increased revenue: You can charge pet rent and deposits.
- More applicants: A wider tenant pool gives you better screening choices.
When managed well, pets can be an asset to your property—not a liability.
Addressing the Risks of Pet-Friendly Rentals
Of course, allowing animals isn't without risk. The key is to anticipate and manage the most common issues, such as:
- Damage: Chewed baseboards, scratched floors, or stained carpet.
- Noise: Barking dogs can disturb neighbors and other tenants.
- Allergens: Pet dander can linger, affecting future occupants with allergies.
The goal isn’t to eliminate every risk—it’s to implement strong systems that reduce the impact.
Writing a Pet Policy That Holds Up
A well-written pet policy ensures that everyone knows the rules. Your lease should clearly spell out expectations, costs, and consequences. Here’s what to include:
Pet Screening Guidelines
Request details such as:
- Pet type, breed, and weight
- Vaccination and licensing records
- Age and spay/neuter status
- Behavioral history in past rentals
You might also require renters to submit photos or schedule a meet-and-greet before approval.
Fees and Deposits
Set a reasonable but effective fee structure:
- Monthly pet rent: $25–$50 per pet
- Refundable deposit: $250–$400, depending on size or species
These fees help offset wear and tear and generate additional cash flow.
Behavioral Standards
Include guidelines for:
- Proper waste disposal
- Noise control
- Leash use in common areas
- Restricted zones inside the unit (e.g., furniture or bedrooms)
Setting expectations early reduces conflict later.
Pet Limits
It’s fair to restrict:
- Number of pets per unit
- Weight thresholds (e.g., under 50 pounds)
- Prohibited breeds, as long as restrictions don’t violate fair housing laws
Want help balancing fair housing compliance with pet restrictions? We’ve created a guide to support animals that explains how to handle ESAs and service animals the right way.
What the Law Says About Support Animals
Federal housing laws make a clear distinction between pets and assistance animals. You must understand and follow these rules to avoid legal trouble.
Here's what you can't do:
- Deny housing to someone with a service animal or ESA
- Charge deposits or pet rent for assistance animals
- Ask for medical documentation related to a tenant’s disability
What you can do:
- Request documentation confirming the need for an ESA
- Require standard pet behavior and cleanliness
- Enforce consequences for property damage, even if caused by a service animal
Following these steps protects both your property and your legal standing.
Pet Screening Is Just as Critical as Tenant Screening
If you screen tenants thoroughly, why not their pets? Pet screening can identify potential problems before they show up on your carpet or lease ledger.
Ask prospective renters:
- Is the pet house-trained?
- Has it lived in a rental before?
- Has it ever shown aggressive behavior?
- Are vaccinations up to date?
You can also require renters' insurance that includes pet liability coverage as a layer of protection.
Pet-Proofing Tips for Long-Term Value
Preventive maintenance can protect your property from wear and tear while still welcoming pets. These updates don’t have to break the bank, either.
- Install vinyl plank or other pet-resistant flooring
- Use semi-gloss paint for easy cleanup
- Require regular flea treatment in carpeted units
- Encourage the use of pet crates when tenants are away
- Conduct mid-lease inspections to catch problems early
Want to keep your property in top shape? Learn how preventive maintenance protects your ROI and why it’s essential for long-term value.
What to Do If a Tenant Has an Unauthorized Pet
Not every tenant will follow the rules. If you discover an unapproved animal in the unit, act promptly but professionally.
- Communicate first. A reminder of the lease terms might solve the issue.
- Offer a solution. If the tenant wants to keep the pet, provide an addendum and charge applicable fees.
- Document everything. This helps if you need to pursue legal remedies later.
- Follow enforcement procedures. Be consistent with every tenant.
Consistency reinforces your credibility as a landlord and keeps enforcement fair.
Responsible Pet Owners Make Excellent Tenants
The right pet policy doesn’t just protect your property—it attracts great tenants. Pet owners are often grateful for the opportunity to rent a pet-friendly home and are more likely to treat it with respect. With thoughtful screening and a clearly defined lease agreement, you’ll find that going pet-friendly is not only profitable but manageable.
Lease Smarter, Not Harder—Let PMI Alliance Help
Creating a strong pet policy takes more than a few lines in the lease. It requires understanding legal boundaries, anticipating tenant needs, and enforcing expectations fairly. At PMI Alliance, we help Dallas property owners do all of that—and more. From writing custom lease agreements to handling compliance, pet screening, and regular inspections, we’ve got your back.
Let’s build a pet policy that boosts your rental income and keeps your tenants happy—without sacrificing control. 👉 Connect with our team today to start protecting your property the smarter way.
FAQs
Can I prohibit pets in my Dallas rental entirely?
Yes, unless a tenant has a service animal or an emotional support animal protected under federal housing laws. For regular pets, landlords have discretion.
How much can I charge for a pet deposit?
Most landlords charge between $250–$400 as a refundable deposit. You can also charge monthly pet rent to help cover ongoing wear and tear.
Am I required to allow emotional support animals in HOAs?
Yes. Texas law and federal regulations require that housing providers accommodate ESAs when proper documentation is provided, even in HOA communities.
What’s the best flooring type for pet-friendly units?
Luxury vinyl plank is highly durable, water-resistant, and easy to clean—making it one of the best flooring choices for rentals with pets.
How do I enforce pet-related lease violations?
Start with a documented warning and attempt to resolve the issue amicably. If needed, follow your lease’s enforcement provisions and maintain a consistent process.
