Long Island is an attractive choice for many property investors thanks to its strong, stable housing market. If you own property in this popular location, you can increase its appeal even more by offering pet-friendly accommodation.
Allowing pets in a rental unit can be a risky proposition though, so it's not ideal for every landlord. In some cases, you might not have a say in the matter, though.
Read on to find out more about service and support animals and what's involved in accommodating them in your Long Island investment property.
What are Service Animals?
Service animals are specially trained to assist people with disabilities to perform daily tasks. They're usually dogs, but miniature ponies are also a popular choice.
These animals can assist their owners by:
- Helping blind people navigate their environment
- Helping deaf people recognize sounds, e.g., a doorbell
- Fetching things for wheelchair-bound people
According to the ADA, landlords must make reasonable accommodations for service animals. This includes waiving your no-pets policy and pet deposit or pet fees.
Defining Support Animals
Support animals may or may not have specialized training, but they still play an important role in helping their owners cope with daily life. These creatures offer support to people suffering from:
- Anxiety and depression
- Phobias
- Loneliness
They may perform specific tasks for their owners or simply offer comfort and support in stressful situations. Under the Fair Housing Act, landlords must make provisions for these animals, too.
Where Do Pets Fit In?
Many American families own pets, ranging from goldfish to large dogs. So, when you advertise your property as pet-friendly, you'll attract a lot more tenant applications.
Due to the high demand for pet-friendly housing, you can also charge higher rent prices for these homes. Pet families are also more likely to renew their leases.
There are risks associated with allowing pets in a rental unit, such as:
- Barking dogs disturbing the neighbors
- Lingering unpleasant smells
- Damage to flooring and landscaping
Careful tenant screening can help you mitigate these risks. Landlord references can reveal if the pets have caused any issues before. Interviewing potential tenants with the pet present may also provide clues about it's level of obedience and training.
Frequent property inspections will reveal damages caused by pets early on, so you can limit damage to your property.
Maximize Your Long Island Property
Deciding to allow pets in your Long Island investment property is an important decision, but you don't always have a choice when it comes to allowing animals to occupy your rental units. The Fair Housing Act and Americans with Disabilities Act override your decision about allowing tenants to house service and support animals.
The property management team at PMI Lighthouse can help guide your decisions in this regard and ensure you comply with relevant laws regarding animals in rental units. We offer a full range of property management services, including property inspections and tenant screening.
Discover how we can help you make the best decisions for making the most of your Long Island investment properties.
