Pets are a big deal in rental properties—both for tenants who love them and for property managers who have to enforce pet policies. But what happens when a tenant requests to remove a pet to avoid pet fees or comply with lease rules? Without a structured process, you could end up with unauthorized pets still on the property, disputes over fees, and compliance headaches.
That’s why this latest PMAssist Insider lesson is all about handling pet removal requests efficiently, confirming compliance, and ensuring you’re protected. π Plus, we’re giving you a FREE LeadSimple process & JotForm template to streamline everything!
Why You Need a Pet Removal Policy
When a tenant claims they’ve removed a pet, how do you confirm it? Without a clear policy and verification process, you’re relying on trust alone—which can lead to:
π¨ Tenants lying to avoid pet rent or deposits
π¨ Unauthorized pets remaining in the unit
π¨ Unreported pet damage that gets discovered too late
A structured pet removal process ensures:
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Consistent enforcement – Every tenant follows the same steps.
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Legal protection – Proper documentation prevents disputes.
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Fair fee structures – No lost revenue from tenants trying to avoid pet costs.
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Property protection – Ensures any pet-related damage is addressed.
π‘ Pro Tip: Always require a formal Pet Removal Request Form so there’s a documented record of the tenant’s request.
Inspections: How to Confirm the Pet is Actually Gone
Just because a tenant says they removed their pet doesn’t mean they actually did. π΅οΈβοΈ
πΉ Schedule a Pet Removal Inspection – Conduct an in-person or virtual walkthrough.
πΉ Look for signs of pets – Fur, food bowls, pet odors, scratches on floors, or even leftover pet toys.
πΉ Check with neighbors – Other tenants often notice if a pet is still on the property.
πΉ Require supporting documents – Proof of pet rehoming, vet records, or updated pet registrations.
If a pet is still present, enforce pet fees or lease violations accordingly.
Fees to Charge for Pet Removals
Some tenants request to remove a pet just to avoid monthly pet rent or reduce their deposit costs—which can result in lost revenue if they’re not truly following through.
π Consider implementing these fees:
β Pet Removal Inspection Fee: Covers your time to verify compliance.
β Damage Assessment Fee: If there are any lingering signs of pet damage.
β Backdated Pet Fees: If a tenant falsely claimed pet removal earlier to avoid charges.
π‘ Pro Tip: If a pet was previously unapproved, tenants should still be responsible for any applicable unauthorized pet fines.
Automating the Process: FREE LeadSimple Workflow & JotForm
Manually tracking pet removals can be a hassle. That’s why we’re giving PMAssist Insider members a ready-to-use LeadSimple workflow & JotForm template to:
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Log and track pet removal requests
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Schedule pet inspections automatically
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Generate and send compliance notices
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Maintain documentation for legal protection
π’ Want access to this automation? It’s included in PMAssist Insider! Get it here: bit.ly/pmainsider
Final Thoughts: How to Enforce Pet Removals Without the Headache
Handling pet removals shouldn’t be a guessing game. With a clear process, proper inspections, and automated tracking, you can ensure compliance, protect your revenue, and maintain property conditions.
π’ Want the full guide + FREE automation tools?
Join PMAssist Insider and get the LeadSimple workflow & JotForm template to streamline pet removal requests today!
π Join now: bit.ly/pmainsider
Have you ever had a tenant try to fake a pet removal to avoid fees? πΆπ± Drop your wildest stories in the comments! β¬οΈ
