Tenant has a dog when I have no pet policy

[Linda Robinson]

I have a no pet policy. I used a realtor to screen tenants. We agreed on a section 8 tenant. After submitting the paperwork and having an inspection the tenant was approved. She moved in and after 2wks my husband saw someone leave her apartment with a dog. I asked her if she had a dog she said yes. I told her the apartment was listed as no pets. She said she didn’t know the realtor never mentioned it and it’s an emotional support dog. I also asked why didn’t she mention it before now. She says she didn’t think it was a big deal. I told her the lease states no pets and asked for the paperwork . Now she is asking for a deadbolt lock and a peephole . I don’t want to do anything because I feel she was dishonest. I am leaning towards the deadbolt lock but no peephole. She previously asked to put up a ring bell . If she puts up the ring there is no need for a peephole. Thoughts? 

[Tim Miller]

There is a service called PetScreening.com, we use it. This way it takes the legal hassle off of you. We've had 2 (now former tenants) get denied for their "so called" ESA pet. We were threatened with a HUD complaint and even had a lawyer call us. We simply referred them to our lawyer and never heard another word. Just remember that if you sign up for this service, you have to use it for all of your units. Good Luck!