Great tenant wants a cat

[Scott J.]

I own a two houses on one lot and live in one and rent the other. Our tenants of the last 18 months have been GREAT. Rent is always on time, they never complain, and the house is always tidy. In fact, there was a dirt/weed area in their yard that they wanted covered with cement to put a glass table and chairs. They offered to pay half of the cement material and labor costs ($350)!

Unfortunately, one of them is moving back home to save money. The remaining tenant has said she wants to stay a long time. She informed me a friend of hers would like to move in, but she has a cat. I'd love to keep this tenant happy, but have heard a lot of horror stories. I'm between the following options:

1) Just say "no". I'm allergic to cats and I have a no pets clause in the contract. (both very true)

2) Allow the cat, but charge a $200 pet deposit and $25 more per month. The cat will ONLY be allowed if it is spayed/neutered (I've dealt with cats in heat and it is horrible).

Should I stick to my guns and say no or allow the pet because I get extra money and this tenant has been a model citizen?

PS. This unit is only 600 sq. ft., which makes me even more hesitant to allow 2 people plus a pet.

[Brian Stone]

I have two cats and have lived in 3 of my apartments as I rehabbed them. One of the cats pees inside (long story) but it does ruin carpet, there really is no way to get it out. If you have hard surfaces it's not as bad. Anyway not to scare you from renting to someone with cats...

I do rent all my places to people with pets (cats and dogs). I take a non-refundable deposit to cover the extra wear and tear. I would also suggest you have enough of a deposit to cover completely replacing the carpet/flooring if needed. I have never had a problem with a tenant cat peeing (just my own).