Duane Roberts 
Pets have become an essential part of many families today. For pet lovers, a home without pets is not complete. However, when you want to rent a new home or an apartment, your furry friends might not be welcomed with open arms. This is where pet screening comes in handy. In this blog post, we will explore everything about pet screening, what it is, why it is important, and what you need to know before renting a new home with your pets.
As pet owners, we know how much our furry friends mean to us. We want to provide them with the best possible care and comfort. But when it comes to renting or buying a property, there’s always a question about whether our pets will be welcome or not. This is where pet screening comes in. In this article, we’ll discuss what you need to know about pet screening, how it works, and why it’s important.
What is pet screening, and how does it work?
Pet screening is a process through which landlords and property managers can evaluate pets and their owners before allowing them to move in. It helps to ensure that both the pet and the property are safe, and that the pet owner is responsible. Pet screening usually involves completing a questionnaire on the pet’s breed, age, weight, and behavior history. It also requires the pet owner to provide proof of vaccinations and insurance.
Some pet screening companies go one step further by providing behavioral assessments for pets. These assessments take into account the pet’s temperament, how well they interact with other animals, and their obedience level. All this information helps landlords make informed decisions about whether to accept a pet or not.
Pet screening is a process that landlords, property managers, and real estate agents use to evaluate pets and their owners. The process is done to ensure that the pet will not be a threat to the property or other tenants. It also helps landlords to set policies and guidelines to ensure that the living space is safe and clean for everyone.
What are the Benefits of Pet Screening?
The benefits of pet screening are numerous. For one, it helps tenants with pets to find the right rental space for themselves and their pets. Pet screening also helps landlords to evaluate the pet-related risks and set reasonable policies and guidelines. Pet screening can also help landlords to attract more tenants with pets since it improves the reputation of the rental property.
What Should You Expect During Pet Screening?
During the pet screening, landlords will collect information about your pet, including its breed, age, weight, and vaccination records. They may also ask for pet references from previous landlords or veterinary clinics. You should also expect to provide information about yourself, such as your rental history and personal references. This information will help the landlord evaluate the risks associated with your pet and assess if you are a responsible pet owner.
How Can You Prepare for Pet Screening?
Before going for pet screening, ensure that your pet is well-behaved and well-groomed. Provide your landlord with copies of your pet’s vaccination records, obedience training certificates, and any other necessary information that will show that you are a responsible pet owner. It’s also important to familiarize your pet with your new home and its surroundings before moving in to make the transition process smoother.
What Happens If Your Pet Fails the Screening?
If your pet fails the screening, the landlord may ask you to find alternative accommodation for your pet, or you may not be allowed to rent the property. It’s important to note that there are breed restrictions and pet weight limits in some rental properties, so it’s crucial to inquire about these restrictions before making a commitment.
Why is pet screening important?
There are several reasons why pet screening is important for both landlords and pet owners. Firstly, it helps landlords to ensure that their property and other tenants are safe. If a pet has a history of aggression or destructive behavior, it could cause damage to the property or harm to other tenants.
Secondly, pet screening protects pet owners from renting a property that is not suitable for their pets. For example, if the property has restrictions on pet weight or breeds, pet screening would identify these restrictions before the move-in. This saves pet owners from the hassle of moving in and then finding out that their pets are not welcome.
Finally, pet screening can help pet owners establish their reputation as responsible pet owners. This can come in handy when looking for future rental properties.
How much does pet screening cost?
The cost of pet screening varies depending on the screening company and the level of screening required. Some screening companies charge a flat fee for the basic screening questionnaire and additional fees for behavioral assessments and background checks. Others charge a per-pet fee, which can range from $20 to $100 per pet.
What are the alternatives to pet screening?
If a landlord or property manager does not require pet screening, it’s important for pet owners to take responsibility for their pets. This includes keeping them under control and well-behaved at all times. It’s also important to have renters insurance that covers pet-related damages and accidents.
Pet owners should also be aware of any pet-related restrictions before moving in. This includes checking the lease agreement for clauses on pet weight, breed, and number of pets. If a pet does not meet the requirements set by the landlord or property manager, it’s best to look for alternative accommodation.
Tips for a successful pet screening process
If you’re planning to rent a property with pets, here are some tips for a successful pet screening process:
– Be honest about your pet’s behavior history and provide proof of vaccinations and insurance.
– Keep your pet under control during the screening process.
– Consider getting a behavioral assessment for your pet to demonstrate that they are well-behaved.
– Look for properties that allow pets to avoid potential conflicts.
Conclusion:
Pet screening is an essential process in today’s rental market, and it’s crucial for pet owners to understand what it entails. To ensure a smooth transition when moving with your pet, communicate effectively and openly with your landlord, and provide all the necessary information during the screening process. By doing so, you can increase your chances of finding a rental property that accommodates both you and your furry friend.
In summary, pet screening is an important process for both landlords and pet owners. It helps to ensure that the property is safe and that pet owners are responsible. Pet owners should take responsibility for their pets, even if pet screening is not required. And if you’re planning to rent a property with pets, be honest about your pet’s behavior history, keep them under control during the screening process, and look for properties that allow pets. This will help to ensure a successful and happy tenancy.
