they got a puppy

[Anthony Varner]

Hi BP people,

The lease says no pets and tenants agreed to no pets.  Thing is, it's a duplex and I live upstairs, so I can hear what's going on below.  I've heard a puppy barking for a few days now and yes it's possible they are dog-sitting and it's temporary (but they STILL should have gotten my permission first), or they simply have a pet now and are trying to hide it.  

If I allowed them to keep the dog, what is standard? Just have them pay a pet deposit?  Or add something to the monthly rent?

Ideally I wouldn't want any dogs/cats in the place because of the hardwood floors (urine) and whatever else such as chewing on corners of doors, etc.  But it sounds like a very small dog so might not be a huge deal.  

How would you approach this situation?   Anyone with some experience in this area, I'd really appreciate any tips.

Thanks in advance.

AJ Varner

[Marcia Maynard]

You need to do a site inspection immediately. Damage from pets can occur instantaneously! Even if they are only "pet sitting", it is in violation of your lease. Your tenants are rule breakers. If they are breaking one rule, they are more likely to break more rules. Address this at once and, if necessary, serve them with a lease violation notice to conform. 

Puppies are often more destructive than mature dogs. If you decide to change the terms of your agreement to allow pets, then make sure the tenants are responsible pet owners and abide by the recommendations of the ASPCA and the Humane Society. You can find good information about this on their websites. By allowing pets, you can often command more rent, fees and/or deposits. Be sure you aware of the potential downsides as well.