What Are the Worst Kinds of Pets for a Rental Property?

Pets can make a rental property feel like a home, and many tenants put finding a pet-friendly rental at the top of their checklist. But while many tenants have well-behaved, low-maintenance animals, some pets can create serious problems for landlords and property managers. From destructive tendencies to noise complaints, the wrong kind of pet can lead to property damage, legal liability, and even lost rental income. For landlords considering a pet policy, it’s crucial to be aware of the worst types of pets for rental properties.

Some Dogs May Void Your Insurance Coverage

Dogs are one of the most common pets renters want to bring along, but not all breeds are suitable for rental properties. Large breeds like Saint Bernards can be a problem simply because of their size. These dogs need plenty of space to move around, and in a small apartment or rental home, they may cause wear and tear on flooring, doors, and furniture. Additionally, their sheer weight can lead to more significant damage if they are prone to jumping on furniture or running through rooms.

Beyond size, certain breeds have reputations for being high-energy, difficult to train, or even aggressive. Landlords often restrict breeds like Rottweilers, Pit Bulls, and German Shepherds due to their perceived risk factors. Many insurance companies even have breed restrictions, meaning that allowing these dogs could void a landlord’s liability coverage. While not every dog of these breeds is dangerous, landlords have to consider the potential liability and damage that can come from an untrained or poorly socialized dog.

Birds: Nature’s Noisemakers

Birds might seem like safe and low-maintenance pets, but certain species can be a nightmare in a rental property. Parrots, cockatoos, and macaws are notorious for being loud, and their calls can carry through walls, leading to neighbor complaints. Some of these birds can scream for hours at a time, especially if they are bored or anxious while their owner is at work.

Beyond noise issues, large birds can also be destructive. Their strong beaks can chew through almost anything, and if they’re bored, they will try to. They also create a mess with feathers, dander, and droppings that can be difficult to clean, potentially leaving long-term damage. Since many bird species live for decades, tenants who keep them may struggle to find new rental housing, leading to potential disputes over pet policies.

Exotic Animals Make Problematic Pets

Exotic pets can be fascinating, but they come with a host of issues that make them a poor choice for rental properties. Reptiles, such as large snakes or iguanas, require specialized care and climate control that may not be suitable for a rental unit. If a tenant fails to maintain proper heating and humidity, the animal’s health can suffer, and in extreme cases, it could lead to structural damage from excessive moisture.

Some exotic pets, like sugar gliders and ferrets, are banned in certain states or cities, including parts of Oregon. If a tenant brings in an illegal pet, the landlord could face legal trouble or fines. Additionally, animals like tarantulas, scorpions, and venomous reptiles pose a risk to other tenants or maintenance workers who might unknowingly come into contact with them.

Even exotic mammals, such as monkeys or raccoons, can cause chaos in a rental property. These animals are highly intelligent and curious, making them notorious for breaking things, chewing through furniture, and causing general destruction. Given their complex needs and unpredictable behavior, exotic pets are best left out of rental agreements.

Fish and Rodents Can Cause a Mess

Certain pets, even if they are legal and commonly owned, can create cleanliness and maintenance issues in a rental property. Rabbits, hamsters, mice, and rats are popular pets but have a tendency to chew on baseboards, carpeting, and electrical cords. Their strong digging instincts mean that they can tear up flooring or burrow into furniture if they aren’t properly contained. Some landlords may also be concerned about hygiene, as rodents can leave behind droppings and odors that are difficult to eliminate.

Fish might seem like a safe pet, but large aquariums present risks of water damage. A cracked tank or accidental spill could lead to mold, warped flooring, or leaks that affect neighboring units. If you allow fish in your units, you may want to consider limiting tank size to prevent costly accidents.

Cats and Ferrets: Odor and Allergen Issues

Strong-smelling pets can make a rental unit unpleasant for future tenants. Cat urine is a notorious problem, as it can seep into carpets and baseboards, making it almost impossible to remove the smell completely. Ferrets also have a natural musky odor that can linger even after deep cleaning.

Tenants who don’t properly clean up after their pets can leave behind lingering odors that drive down a property’s rental value. Once a strong animal odor settles into an apartment or home, it may require multiple cleanings or even flooring replacement before a new tenant moves in.

Cats can also produce high levels of dander, which can trigger allergic reactions in future tenants. Cat fur can cling to walls, carpets, and HVAC systems long after they’ve left, and the cost of professional cleaning to remove allergens from a rental with carpet can quickly add up, especially if you experience high tenant turnover.

Choosing the Right Pet Policy

At the end of the day, any pet can make for a great addition to a rental—but when you can’t be certain how diligent a pet’s owner will be, it can make sense to create some limitations on what kinds of furry tenants you allow. If you’re a landlord who wants to balance tenant satisfaction with protecting your investment, working with a high-quality property management company such as Rent Portland Homes Darla Andrew’s Office can help you develop a fair and enforceable pet policy. For expert guidance on managing rental properties and crafting the perfect pet policy, contact us at (503) 515-3170 today. We’ll help you navigate the complexities of pet-friendly property management while ensuring your investment stays protected and profitable.