Tenants across California are prioritizing rental homes that welcome their furry companions—and landlords in Covina are taking note. With pet ownership on the rise, especially among long-term renters, excluding pets entirely could mean longer vacancies, missed income opportunities, and fewer qualified applicants. But that doesn’t mean throwing open the gates to every animal.
The smartest property owners aren’t just allowing pets—they’re building policies that align with their investment goals. From legal compliance to thoughtful screening and routine upkeep, your strategy should work for both the tenant and the property. If you’re unsure how to get started, these tips for allowing pets in a rental property can give you a solid foundation.
Key Takeaways
- Pet-friendly rentals in Covina appeal to a broader, more stable tenant pool
- Structured pet fees and deposits add extra income and offset potential damage
- Detailed lease clauses help landlords clearly define pet expectations and rules
- Service animals and ESAs must be handled according to fair housing laws
- Immediate response to unauthorized pets preserves property value and lease integrity
Why Pet-Friendly Rentals Work in Covina
Covina residents value community, comfort, and flexibility—and that includes living with pets. Whether it’s seniors with emotional support animals or young families with dogs, many renters are unwilling to consider properties that don’t welcome pets.
By offering a pet-inclusive rental, landlords can reduce days on market, attract responsible tenants, and enjoy better tenant retention. But success depends on putting the right policy in place—not just saying “yes” to every application with a dog.
Creating New Income Streams Through Pet Policies
Pets can be more than just potential liabilities—they can also bring in revenue.
Ways to generate income from pet-friendly leasing include:
- Monthly Pet Rent: Typically $25–$50 per pet, offering consistent cash flow
- Non-Refundable Pet Fees: Collected at lease signing to cover cleaning
- Refundable Pet Deposits: Held to offset the cost of damage or deep cleaning
Because pet-friendly rentals are harder to find, pet-owning tenants often stay longer. This extended tenancy reduces turnover and vacancy costs—making the additional income even more impactful.
Simple Property Enhancements to Prevent Pet Damage
You don’t have to fully renovate your unit to make it pet-friendly. A few smart upgrades can protect your property and improve your bottom line.
Recommended upgrades for Covina landlords:
- Install scratch-resistant flooring like luxury vinyl or tile
- Use satin or semi-gloss paint for easy cleaning and odor resistance
- Require pet liability coverage in renters insurance policies
- Swap out fragile window coverings for washable blinds
- Fence in outdoor areas when applicable
Routine maintenance is also essential. Conducting seasonal inspections ensures compliance with pet agreements and gives you time to resolve issues early. This type of year-round rental care supports property longevity and tenant accountability.
What to Include in a Pet Lease Addendum
Your lease agreement should be specific when it comes to pets. A clear pet addendum sets expectations and gives you legal ground to act when issues arise.
A complete pet policy should outline:
Pet Approval Criteria
- Breed restrictions, size or weight limits
- Required documentation (vaccine records, photos, license info)
Financial Obligations
- Pet rent, deposit terms, and non-refundable fees
Behavior Expectations
- Noise rules, waste disposal, leash use, and conduct in common areas
Enforcement Clauses
- Fines for violations
- Immediate remedies for property damage
- Lease termination rights if pet policies are violated
Well-written clauses make your lease enforceable and reduce the likelihood of disputes.
Understanding Legal Rules for Service Animals and ESAs
Not all animals fall under standard pet policies. Under California and federal fair housing laws, you must accommodate tenants with verified service animals or emotional support animals (ESAs), even in no-pet properties.
You may not:
- Charge pet fees, deposits, or rent for a service animal or ESA
- Deny housing solely because of a qualifying animal
You may:
- Request ESA documentation (not required for service animals)
- Enforce cleanliness and safety standards
- Take action if the animal causes damage or is disruptive
Handling these situations appropriately protects your investment while keeping your rental compliant with the law.
Proactive Damage Control Strategies
Preventing damage is easier than repairing it. A proactive maintenance strategy helps reduce repair costs, streamlines move-outs, and strengthens tenant accountability.
Protect your rental with:
- Move-in and move-out checklists that highlight pet-related responsibilities
- Mid-lease inspections to catch issues early
- Dog-friendly landscaping, like turf or mulch, to avoid dead grass
- Entryway mats and protective door guards
These small steps go a long way in protecting high-traffic areas and reducing future expenses.
Tenant and Pet Screening: Double the Due Diligence
Just like people, not all pets are suitable renters. Screening tenants’ pets is an essential step in your leasing process.
Effective pet screening involves:
- Landlord references that speak to pet behavior
- A written pet profile (age, breed, size, temperament, training)
- Proof of renters' insurance with pet liability coverage
- In-person pet meetings, especially for large dogs or multiple pets
You don’t have to do this alone. If screening sounds overwhelming, property management services can handle tenant and pet vetting, giving you more confidence in who you allow into your property.
Addressing Unauthorized Pets Promptly
Even with solid lease terms, tenants may bring in unauthorized animals. Consistent enforcement is the key to protecting your asset.
If the tenant admits the violation:
- Schedule an immediate inspection
- Require the pet to be added to the lease with proper documentation
- Charge any associated fees
If the tenant denies it:
- Collect evidence (photos, complaints, maintenance reports)
- Issue a formal violation notice
- Enforce lease penalties, including fines or possible lease termination
Document everything. Inconsistent enforcement weakens your lease’s authority and opens the door to future violations.
Why Pet Policies Are an Asset—Not a Risk
Allowing pets doesn’t have to be a gamble. With strong screening, legal awareness, and routine property care, you can protect your investment while appealing to Covina’s most loyal renters. A proactive pet policy isn’t just about keeping animals in check—it’s about setting a standard that benefits both parties.
Keep Your Property Protected with Expert Help
If managing inspections, repairs, or policy enforcement feels overwhelming, PMI San Bernardino is here to support you. Our team can customize pet agreements, oversee maintenance, and provide reliable tenant screening services—all designed to safeguard your investment. See how we help protect your rental year-round with professional management tailored to Covina property owners.
FAQs
Can I charge both pet rent and a pet deposit?
Yes. Pet rent covers monthly wear and tear, while a deposit helps offset potential damage costs at move-out.
Do I need to allow all types of pets?
No. You can restrict pet types, sizes, and breeds in your lease—just be sure it's clearly stated in your pet policy.
What’s the difference between service animals and emotional support animals?
Service animals are trained to perform tasks; ESAs provide emotional support. Both must be accommodated under fair housing laws.
How can I prevent my rental from smelling like pets?
Use odor-resistant materials, enforce cleaning rules, and conduct inspections to stay ahead of buildup.
What if my tenant’s pet damages the unit?
You can deduct repair costs from their pet deposit and enforce any fines listed in the lease agreement.
