The multifamily industry is evolving, and renters are looking for more than just a place to live – they want an experience that includes their pets.

With more than 62 million households in America owning dogs, pet owners represent a significant portion of multifamily prospects. Today’s renters are looking for communities that don’t just accept pets, but truly welcome their four-legged roommates. Properties that recognize this shift and embrace pet-inclusive living are poised for success, building resident satisfaction and loyalty by prioritizing fair, inclusive, and transparent policies.

Setting the standard for pet-inclusive multifamily communities means prioritizing policies that are fair, inclusive, and well-communicated.

Fair, transparent pet fees

Pet fees are a necessary aspect of managing the additional maintenance and resources that comes with being a pet-inclusive community – but that doesn’t mean fees should be excessive.

High or hidden fees can make pet owners feel targeted, alienate potential residents, and diminish the kind of welcoming environment that pet-inclusive communities are meant to foster. Consider establishing a policy of transparency and fairness around these fees in order to establish trust with your property’s pet owners.

By championing pet ownership – rather than capitalizing off it – communities can reassure pet owners that they’re not being exploited but rather contributing fairly to the community’s upkeep.

Noise control guidelines and training accessibility

No one wants to live next door to a dog that barks all night – it’s not fair to neighboring residents or the dog.

Implementing noise control guidelines for pet-inclusive communities can help ensure that all residents, pet owners and non-pet owners alike, enjoy a peaceful living environment. An effective noise control policy sets clear expectations around noise levels (including quiet hours), a fair warning system, and encourages pet training to help reduce issues like excessive barking.

No (or limited) breed and size restrictions

For most pet owners, restrictions can be a defining factor in their decision making. While some limitations can exist for good reason, properties that restrict dog breeds and sizes are missing out on a significant population of tenants.

Nearly 70% of dogs in the U.S. are 25 pounds or more, and about half of them are mixed breeds, according to the APPA 2020 National Pet Owners Survey.

Consider amending policies that restrict dog breeds and sizes, and instead focus on clear pet ownership expectations rather than arbitrary breed or size bans.

A pet waste policy that actually works

Instead of buying expensive cameras or relying on reports from other residents, there are better ways to accurately track your pet population and effectively enforce your waste management policies. The easiest, most efficient, and most cost-effective way for properties to do that is through DNA testing.

Thousands of multifamily properties have relied on PooPrints’ DNA biotechnology to eliminate pet waste and track pet populations on property. Communities that use PooPrints have seen drastic reduction in pet waste on property, increased resident satisfaction, and can generate revenue that can be reinvested back into the community.

By: Patrick Kenneally, Director of Sales and Business Development at PooPrints