Tenant wants new fence; should I raise rent?

[Dan V.]

I had a tenant move in on September. I offered rent $150 less than other similar properties in community. Reason was because part of fence was down. Tenant understood that. Then Hurricane Irma comes (property is in Miami) and takes the rest of the back fence down too. Tenant wants brand new fence in back. In this rental property, roof fan blew off and shingles came off. I fixed this. And I also resurfaced flat roof. And then after all this, tenants wants a new fence in back for her large dog. 

I have been spending a lot of money. Should I raise rent now or after 1 year contract?

[Linda S.]

@Dan V.,

I happily accept dogs in my rentals, under 1 condition-- there is a fenced in back yard.  I love fences!    Fences define areas, provide additional privacy and protection!   6ft Privacy fences are my absolute favorite! 

People are lazy, granted you are in Florida, so the weather is nicer, but in general, people don't often take dogs for walks, or exercise them, so the dogs don't have an energy outlet, which IMO translates to chewing and destroying your house.    I would absolutely put up a fence, just because if there's a fence, they can let their dogs out to run around, significantly less chance of accidents in the house.   I'm sorry, but I think pee-pads are gross.      Think quality of life for your tenant!   If she moves after 1 yr, and you have 1 or 2 months of vacancy, wouldn't you rather have put that $$ towards a fence? 

 I would plan on increasing the rent  a bit upon renewal to offset the costs, but definitely not now IMO since you are under contract.