Pet screening is a formal, standardized procedure used by property managers and landlords to evaluate a prospective pet resident’s suitability for a rental property. This process functions much like a background check, focusing on the animal’s history, health, and behavior. The goal is to create a consistent, documented profile for every animal residing on the property, whether the animal is a traditional pet or an assistance animal.
The Goal of Pet Screening
The primary function of pet screening is to provide a consistent method for assessing and mitigating potential risks associated with allowing animals on a property. Landlords use this process to protect their investment by reducing the likelihood of property damage and minimizing liability concerns. Evaluating a pet’s profile helps property owners ensure compliance with specific pet policies and community or Homeowners Association rules.
This standardized evaluation also minimizes the risk of disputes among residents by assessing factors like noise levels and temperament before a pet moves in. Property insurance carriers often have specific exclusions, such as breed or weight restrictions, and the screening process helps the landlord maintain compliance with these requirements. The procedure aims to establish a baseline of responsible pet ownership and create a safe living environment for all tenants.
Details Required for Submission
The application process requires the tenant to submit a comprehensive pet profile. This profile begins with basic identifying information, including the pet’s name, species, age, weight, and breed. Providing a photograph of the animal is a standard request to verify the appearance and size against the written description.
Applicants must provide verifiable details, such as documentation confirming the pet’s vaccination status, including the date of the last rabies shot, and whether the animal is spayed or neutered. This ensures the pet meets minimum health requirements. Behavioral information is also required, including disclosure of any history of bites, aggressive behavior, or excessive noise complaints from previous residences.
The screening requires contact information for the pet’s veterinarian and sometimes a reference from a previous landlord or pet sitter who can attest to the animal’s temperament. This information helps verify the pet’s history of good conduct and the owner’s commitment to responsible care.
Interpreting Results and Associated Costs
The outcome of the screening process is often translated into a quantifiable metric, such as a “Pet Profile Score” or FIDO Score, which assigns a risk rating to the pet, typically from one to five paws. This score is calculated based on the data submitted, weighing factors like the pet’s age, training history, behavioral disclosures, and breed against the property’s specific criteria. A higher score indicates a lower housing-related risk, while a lower score suggests a higher risk profile.
The final score directly influences the financial obligations placed on the tenant. A non-refundable application fee, often around $20 to $25 per pet, is required to cover the cost of the third-party screening service. Following approval, the pet’s risk rating dictates the amount of the required pet deposit, one-time non-refundable pet fees, and the recurring monthly pet rent. For instance, a low-risk pet might incur a $250 deposit and $25 in monthly rent, while a higher-risk pet may require a deposit of $500 or more with a higher monthly fee.