Tenants in Denver aren’t just looking for modern amenities or great locations—they’re also seeking homes that welcome their furry family members. For landlords, this growing trend offers a major opportunity. A well-executed pet policy can help your property stand out in the market, drive tenant loyalty, and protect your investment long-term.
The key is building a system that screens pets responsibly, enforces lease terms fairly, and understands legal distinctions—like the difference between emotional support animals and standard pets. Before diving in, it helps to explore the pros and cons of pet-friendly leasing so you can make the right decision for your property.
Key Takeaways
- Pet-friendly properties in Denver attract a broader applicant pool and improve retention.
- Screening pets sets clear expectations and reduces potential risks.
- Assistance animals are treated differently from pets under the law.
- Maintenance strategies can mitigate long-term wear from pet occupancy.
- Clear lease policies and documentation support smoother enforcement.
Why Denver Landlords Are Opening Doors to Pets
With its outdoor culture and dog-friendly reputation, Denver is a hotspot for renters who treat their pets like family. Rejecting all pet owners could mean turning away reliable, long-term tenants who would otherwise be ideal renters.
Here’s why more Denver landlords are going pet-friendly:
- Higher visibility: Pet-friendly listings attract more online interest and in-person showings.
- Tenant stability: Pet owners move less frequently, which means fewer turnovers.
- Additional income: Pet rent and non-refundable fees can offset wear and tear.
Structured the right way, a pet policy becomes a competitive edge—not a liability.
Building a Responsible Pet Policy for Your Property
Not every pet (or pet owner) is a perfect fit for your unit. The key to successful pet-friendly leasing is structure and enforcement.
Step 1: Start With a Pet Screening Process
Don’t skip this step. A pet screening should include:
- Type, breed, weight, and age
- Proof of vaccinations and local licensing
- Spay/neuter certification
- History of training or behavioral concerns
- A photo of the animal
This approach not only helps you avoid problem situations—it communicates your expectations upfront. Screening should go hand-in-hand with your broader application review process. If you're unsure how to streamline both, check out this guide on common application fee practices.
Step 2: Implement Fair Fees and Deposits
Colorado allows landlords to charge pet-related fees, but these must be clearly documented in the lease.
Suggested structure:
- Monthly pet rent: $25–$50, depending on the pet
- Non-refundable pet fee: $200–$350
- Refundable deposit: $300–$600 based on pet type and size
Be transparent about how fees will be applied—this helps build trust and ensures compliance.
Step 3: Draft a Strong Lease Addendum
A detailed pet policy addendum should cover:
- Leash use in shared or outdoor areas
- Noise guidelines (e.g., no excessive barking)
- Mandatory pet waste cleanup
- Restrictions on unsupervised animals on balconies
- Penalties for violations, including warnings and possible eviction
With this documentation in place, enforcement becomes straightforward and fair.
Understanding Pets vs. Assistance Animals
It’s crucial to distinguish between a household pet and a legally protected emotional support or service animal. Under federal law, assistance animals are not considered pets.
Landlords Cannot:
- Charge pet rent or deposits for assistance animals
- Reject a tenant based on breed or animal size
- Ask for medical documentation regarding the tenant’s condition
Landlords Can:
- Request legitimate documentation verifying the animal’s status
- Require tenants to keep animals clean and well-behaved
- Charge for damages caused by the animal beyond normal wear
Understanding these guidelines helps landlords stay compliant while maintaining order. Learn more in this breakdown of the differences between assistance animals and pets.
Maintenance Tips for Pet-Friendly Rentals
Worried about pet-related damage? A few property upgrades and habits can help protect your investment over time.
- Replace carpet with scratch-resistant flooring like luxury vinyl or tile
- Use durable, wipeable paints such as satin or semi-gloss
- Require a professional flea treatment and cleaning at move-out
- Conduct periodic inspections to spot issues early
- Recommend crate use or pet gates to control access indoors
These updates reduce long-term expenses and help attract responsible pet-owning tenants.
What to Do About Unauthorized Pets
Even with policies in place, some tenants may try to sneak in a pet. Addressing it early is key.
Here’s how to manage it:
- Refer to the signed lease and remind the tenant of the policy
- Provide an opportunity for proper screening and approval
- Update lease terms and collect appropriate fees if approved
- Document everything for future reference
- Enforce your policy consistently if the issue persists
Consistency is everything—allowing one tenant to break the rules makes it harder to enforce them with others.
Why Responsible Pet Owners Are a Landlord’s Asset
Tenants with pets often take their housing situation seriously. They want to avoid moving frequently, keep their pets safe, and stay in homes that accommodate their lifestyle.
Perks of renting to pet owners include:
- Longer lease terms
- More responsive communication
- Greater likelihood of compliance when expectations are clear
Pet-friendly leasing, when done right, often results in higher tenant satisfaction and fewer vacancies.
More Than a Policy: A Strategy That Grows ROI
Creating a pet-friendly policy isn’t just a lease decision—it’s a smart move in a market like Denver, where pet ownership is common and demand for flexibility is high. Structured properly, your lease can protect your property, generate extra income, and build long-term tenant loyalty.
PMI Aspire helps landlords throughout the Denver area implement pet policies that work. From screening and leasing support to move-in preparation and maintenance, our team ensures your rental runs smoothly and profitably.
🐾 Strengthen your leasing process with tenant screening and pet policy support from PMI Aspire today.
FAQs
Can I restrict specific breeds or sizes of pets?
Yes—for pets. However, these restrictions do not apply to service animals or emotional support animals.
Is pet rent allowed in Colorado?
Yes, you can charge pet rent and fees, but they must be clearly outlined in the lease.
What happens if a tenant lies about having an assistance animal?
You may request verification if you have reason to question the claim. Document everything and proceed according to Fair Housing laws.
Can I evict a tenant for having an unauthorized pet?
Yes, if your lease prohibits it and the tenant refuses to comply after being given the chance to resolve the issue.
Are there benefits to allowing pets in single-family homes versus multifamily units?
Yes. Single-family homes often provide outdoor space, making them more appealing and manageable for pet owners, which may reduce wear inside.
