What is downside allowing small dog in rental

[Joan C.]

Hello BP community,

I am wondering if I should allow small pet in the rental? We have hardwood and pergo floor in the rental, which is susceptible to water damage, is it worthy to accept small pet for extra $50/mo and a few hundred security deposit? If so, how to mitigate the risk of damages and the smell of the animal?

Thanks in advance for your input?

[JD Martin]

I accept dogs. We require: shots, dog is fixed, must be "inside" dog, yard must be picked up at least twice weekly, dog's nails must be kept clipped so as not to damage hardwood floors in units that have HW. We ask questions that quickly determine whether the owner is a "dog person" or not - who is the dog's vet, where do they take the dog for exercise, etc. In other words, we interview the prospective tenant about the dog, and try to meet the dog as well. So far no problems.