At Real Property Management Today, we’ve seen firsthand how pet-friendly rental policies can expand your applicant pool and increase profitability for property owners. According to research by Firepaw, a nonprofit dedicated to animal welfare, landlords who allow pets often see 20–30% higher rental income compared to those with strict no-pet policies.
This matters in Washington, where nearly half of renters own pets — and many more would if their housing allowed it. In fact, data from the American Veterinary Association shows that 1 in 2 renters already have pets, and another 35% would adopt if permitted. With demand for pet-friendly housing so high, saying “no” can mean turning away a significant portion of qualified applicants.
Washington-Specific Laws to Keep in Mind
- Fair Housing Act & Service Animals: Under both federal and Washington State law, service animals and emotional support animals are not considered “pets.” Landlords must make reasonable accommodations and cannot charge pet rent, deposits, or fees for them.
- Pet Deposits and Fees: Washington law permits landlords to collect refundable deposits and charge monthly pet rent for standard pets (dogs, cats, etc.), as long as these terms are clearly outlined in the lease.
- Damage Protections: While concerns about property damage are common, Washington allows landlords to deduct for actual pet-related damages from the security deposit, provided the charges are itemized and documented in the disposition letter within 30 days of move-out.
Benefits of Allowing Pets
- Increased rental income through pet rent and deposits
- Lower vacancy rates and shorter marketing times due to higher demand
- More long-term tenants, as pet owners are less likely to move frequently given limited housing options
- A wider applicant pool, giving owners more flexibility in selecting the right resident
While noise and property wear are often cited as drawbacks, studies show that pet-related damages are only slightly higher than those caused by tenants themselves. With thoughtful lease agreements and clearly defined pet policies, these risks can be managed effectively.
At Real Property Management Today, we help owners create compliant, Washington-specific pet policies that balance risk with reward, ensuring homes stay protected while maximizing return on investment.
We are pledged to the letter and spirit of U.S. policy for the achievement of equal housing opportunity throughout the Nation. See Equal Housing Opportunity Statement for more information.
