What to do if renter brought dog to no pet listing

Question

Hey,

I’m pretty new to the self managing vacation rental game. We have a beach house that states very clearly no pets allowed in the house rules. The guest has signed a renter agreement and paid a $500 security deposit hold. He booked through AirBNB for 2 nights. They checked in yesterday and when I reviewed the ring camera footage of them checking in they have a dog with them. This was not disclosed to me and we do not typically allow any pets. What would you do at this point? Would you contact the guest and let them know you are aware of the dog and ask them to board the dog or leave? Would you wait until they leave and assess any damages or extra cleaning required due to the dog and take it out of the security deposit? The dog is a small dog if that matters at all. Looking for some advice from people that have been doing this much longer than me. Thanks.

Nathan Gesner · Answer

When you establish a rule (e.g. no pets allowed) then there should be a consequence for violating that rule.

I would determine what you want the consequence to be and then act on it. Personally, I would wait until they leave and then take a fine out of their deposit.

Russell Brazil · Answer

This is a short term rental? If so, then it falls under the ADA and not the Fair Housing Act. Under the Fair Hosuing Act, if someone has a service animal they must ask the landlord for a reasonable accommodation. If this is a service animal, no such request needs to be made under the ADA.

Trent Reeve · Answer

service animals in most states are not required to be registered. thats what makes it so hard in these situations.

Henry T. · Answer

Say nothing or they'll trash your place. Either they're dishonest, or feel they don't need to tell you.  Call Airbnb for help after they're out. After they are out charge fee. Provide proof of animal. Do you have animal allergies yourself? Make them pay for professional dander and hair removal cleaning.  If they can provide legitimate service animal docs, return fee.

Kyle Obradovich · Answer

This happens often - wait to they leave and take the fine out of the deposit. If they leave a bad review, simply state what happened. This will set the tone for other renters trying to do the same thing.

Dwayne Ramsey · Answer

Hi James Nelson,

If a renter brings a dog to a no-pet listing, there are several steps you can take:1. Lease Violation Notice: Your lease agreement likely includes a no pets policy that does not allow pets at the property or there is a requirement for the pet to be registered with you. If your tenant has a pet on the property without your permission, this means the tenant has committed a lease violation, and you should prepare to send them a notice.2. Assess Fines As Necessary: Some lease agreements include detailed pet clauses that permit either a one-time pet fee or a daily charge for each day the illegal pet stays at the property. If your lease agreement has such a clause, you can send out a bill for these fees and a reminder that the fees will be applied until the situation is remedied.3. Modify The Lease, If Applicable: If you decide to allow the pet to stay, you may need to modify the lease to include the pet and any associated fees.4. Eviction, If Applicable: If the tenant refuses to comply with your requests or if the pet causes significant issues, you may need to consider eviction.Remember, it’s important to handle this situation professionally and legally. You might want to consult with a legal professional to ensure you’re following all applicable laws and regulations.

Dan H. · Answer

Service animals have required training.  HUD direction clearly spells out requirement of service animals.  I suspect you are confusing ESA with service animal.  ESA require no training but still require a letter from licensed heath care provider.  In both cases the requirement is on tenant prior to occupancy.  You cannot simply show up with animal and claim ESA or service animal.

The HUD directive states what you can request of someone claiming a service animal.   Read it.

Marcus R. · Answer

Another vote for taking a small fee.  Consider letting them know in advance that you're aware they brought a pet and are still willing to let them stay.  Could help earn you a great review.

Sometimes it's malicious but personally I have had instances where folks who were supposed to watch a pet (friends, family, Rovers, etc...) cancel last minute.  Still best to notify the host in advance when this happens.

Michael Baum · Answer

Personally I would charge them 1/2 of the deposit for cleaning. $250.

Going off what @Russell Brazil said, it has to be a registered service animal, not an emotional support animal.

What to do if renter brought dog to no pet listing

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