Sneaky way to uncover pets? smoking?

Question

I was wondering.  As many tenants will tell you to your face that they do not have a cat or dog, and then try to sneak them in...

What about the following idea:  Ad text say "pet friendly"  Seems people are more likely to reveal pet ownership that if you say "no dogs/cats allowed."

And wondering the same for smokers.  "smoker friendly"

As it is not illegal to discriminate against pets or smokers...

Thoughts?

Steve Babiak · Answer

When I visit an applicant's present residence, I look to see whether they have a shoe rack / shoe area near the entry door - because this is a good sign that they don't wear their outdoor shoes indoors.

Danny Day · Answer

Like Brian Hoyt said screen your tenants very well. I passed on 5 before one got into my rental. They won't even allow me to wear shoes in their house! I love it...

James H. · Answer

Are you going to allow pets? If not, I would not put "pet friendly" in the ad.

My strategy is simple. I just tell them point blank that pets are not allowed (unless I allow them). Violation of the rule is grounds for eviction.

If they are going to lie and sneak around, I don't know if there is really much you can do about it besides follow through on your promise to evict.

As far as smokers, you should be able to smell it on them when you screen them if they are the type to smoke inside. Maybe not always. You might have a harder time figuring out how to prevent smoking in your units than just knowing ways to treat the smell. There are effective ways.