Should you allow pets in your Ontario rental property? Pros and Cons

Being a landlord in Ontario, Canada, allowing pets into your rental property is a big decision. This decision can affect tenant pools, property upkeep, and overall tenant satisfaction.

We understand the intricacies involved in making this decision at Royal York Property Management and strive to provide you with detailed insights that should help you navigate the pros and cons of allowing pets on your rental property. From the most recent insights of 2024, let us now consider some of the factors that should inform your pet policy.

Started in 2010, Royal York Property Management is the number one property management and leasing firm across Ontario, with more than 22,000 properties under management with values in excess of $10.1 billion. According to the most up-to-date insights for 2024, this article will now discuss the various elements that will guide your pet policy.

Legal Framework in Ontario

Knowledge of the legal landscape is very important when considering a pet policy. The Residential Tenancies Act is a key piece of legislation in Ontario that has significantly shaped the landscape of landlord-tenant relationships with regard to pet ownership.

Firstly, and very importantly, the RTA prohibits landlords from placing "no pet" clauses in rental agreements. You cannot, however, reject a tenant with a pet outright. But, of course, there are some exceptions to this general rule. For example, while a condominium may have its own restrictions on pets, if you own a condo unit, you would still be subject to the condominium corporation's rules with respect to pets. And if a pet is doing considerable damage or is a threat to others, landlords have the right to deal with such issues under the protection of the RTA.

Pros of Allowing Pets  

1. Wider Tenant Pool   

Allowing pets can greatly increase your pool of potential tenants. Many potential tenants are responsible pet owners who are actively looking for pet-friendly housing. Opening your doors to these tenants decreases your vacancy rates and increases the chances of finding appropriate tenants faster. This diversity in applicants can be particularly beneficial in competitive rental markets.

2. Higher Rental Income   

Pet-friendly property has high demand, and, in 2024, information indicates that this type of property can command high rents. Tenants will be willing to pay an extra premium to keep the pet. Moreover, you can consider charging a reasonable pet deposit amount that would cover the damage that might have been caused by the pet. This will not only boost your rental income, but it will also provide a financial buffer for property maintenance.

3. Tenant Satisfaction  

Happy tenants mean increased chances that they will stay longer, which reduces turnover rates. It really increases tenant satisfaction by letting them come to a unit with their whole family, pets included. Additionally, pets may even make the tenants more responsible, as responsible pet owners will tend to care for the property well in order to continue a good relationship with their landlord and not ruin their living conditions.

Cons of Allowing Pets 

1. Property Damage  

The first thing that most landlords worry about when they hear "pets" is property damage. Pets can mark floors, stain carpeting, and show other signs of wear and tear. This is one reason regular property inspections are important; rules and guidelines regarding pet care will help. Pet deposits can also guarantee funds are available for repairs in case of damage.

2. Noise Complaints  

Noise complaints, more so because of the barking of dogs, can be a headache. It makes the neighbors and the other tenants lack peace with one another. To handle it, set expectations for the tenants on what is an acceptable noise level in your lease and encourage the tenants to communicate any issues promptly.

3. Liability Concerns 

The landlord may be held responsible if a pet causes injury to someone or makes a big mess. It is important, therefore, to be covered adequately by insurance. This risk can also be mitigated by thoroughly screening tenants who have pets.

Mitigating Risks  

Be sure to screen tenants thoroughly. Ask former landlords for references to find out how the pet behaved and the tenant's level of responsibility. Ask about the pet's history, such as any incidents or bad behavior. Be sure to include pet-specific clauses in the lease. Consider adding clauses in a lease that limit pet behavior, where pet waste can be disposed of, and access for pets to communal areas. You could always include a pet addendum to the lease, which can itemize any and all things concerning the pet in the rental, ensuring both parties know what is expected. Be communicative with your tenant. Tell your tenant to bring any pet-related issues to your attention. This helps to nip potential problems in the bud and maintains a good relationship between landlord and tenant.

Allowing pets on your Ontario rental property involves balancing the potential positives with the risks. Certainly, property damage and noise complaints are legitimate concerns, but the advantages, which include a larger tenant pool, higher rental income, and higher tenant satisfaction, of instituting a pet-friendly policy are great. By integrating a strict screening process, lease clauses that are very detailed, and open communication, you will help to manage the challenges associated with pets on rental property.

Royal York Property Management knows rental property management inside and out and can assist you with your pet policy decisions. When considering pet policies, do so in a way that will support your business objectives while still meeting your tenants' needs. For a harmonious living environment between you and your tenants. For more information on Royal York Property Management and our services, visit: royalyorkpropertymanagement.ca