Skip to content
×
PRO
Pro Members Get Full Access!
Get off the sidelines and take action in real estate investing with BiggerPockets Pro. Our comprehensive suite of tools and resources minimize mistakes, support informed decisions, and propel you to success.
Advanced networking features
Market and Deal Finder tools
Property analysis calculators
Landlord Command Center
$0
TODAY
$69.00/month when billed monthly.
$32.50/month when billed annually.
7 day free trial. Cancel anytime
Already a Pro Member? Sign in here

Join Over 3 Million Real Estate Investors

Create a free BiggerPockets account to comment, participate, and connect with over 3 million real estate investors.
Use your real name
By signing up, you indicate that you agree to the BiggerPockets Terms & Conditions.
The community here is like my own little personal real estate army that I can depend upon to help me through ANY problems I come across.
Short-Term & Vacation Rental Discussions
All Forum Categories
Followed Discussions
Followed Categories
Followed People
Followed Locations
Market News & Data
General Info
Real Estate Strategies
Landlording & Rental Properties
Real Estate Professionals
Financial, Tax, & Legal
Real Estate Classifieds
Reviews & Feedback

Updated 10 months ago,

User Stats

101
Posts
71
Votes
Mindy Nicol
  • Realtor
  • St Augustine, FL
71
Votes |
101
Posts

Surprise service animals and cleaning fees

Mindy Nicol
  • Realtor
  • St Augustine, FL
Posted

Service animal question for the group.....I have a guest staying who I noticed has large 2 dogs. There were no pets disclosed in the booking and I was surprised to see them. I called Airbnb to see if they are service animals. It turns out they are and the guest requires them to remind her to take medical treatments. I understand they are not considered pets. Questions for the group:

Are we allowed to charge a cleaning fee or not? I do accept 1 dog with an extra cleaning fee but not two. Airbnb has told me if there is an issue when they leave I have to fill out their form to see if I can get reimbursed. Airbnb told me guests can have up to 3 service animals, they do not have to disclose them at booking, and they can be dogs or miniature horses.

  • Do you ask up front if they are bringing a service animal? If we can't then how can we provide extra things like dog bowls, water etc if we do not know?
  • Does anyone charge an extra service animal cleaning fee or is this a no no?  How do you recoup the cleaning costs?
  • Can we see the proof they are in fact service animals?
  • Is there any law in Florida that protects the rights of the property owner for rentals relating to animals on property?

I thought maybe someone in the group has come across this. I want to do the right thing but I also want to know in advance which animals are on property and to be able to recoup cleaning fees. Thanks in advance! Mindy

Loading replies...