House hacking and roommate brought dog over

[Michael Dallas]

So I am house hacking my first house and I have 4 other roommates. They asked me before I wrote up a lease if he could bring a dog. And I said yes but he would have to pay a small fee. But he said never mind he isn’t going to bring one. So I didn’t worry about it when I drafted my lease that they all signed. In the lease I didn’t add a pet clause which is my fault. But I got home today and he has a dog here. He might just be taking care of it for a little bit I haven't asked yet. Do y’all have any suggestions about how I should go about this?? I love dogs but I know they will cause more wear and tear to the house along with any messes they cause. Thanks for the advice!

[Richard F.]

Aloha,

When you are renting out rooms, you need to have a set of "House Rules" that apply to everyone, and cover such things as quiet hours; overnight guest limits; no food or cooking in bedrooms; cleaning and trash removal responsibilities; specified storage areas; use of common areas; guest parking; pet/no pet policy AND an Assistance Animal policy; etc. These rules can typically be updated from time to time, but new changes would not go into effect for 30 days or more dependent on local LL/Tenant laws. This is different from changing the terms of the actual Rental Agreement, which can only be done upon renewal or amendment, and acceptance by all parties.