For many renters, pets are part of the family. And for property owners, that means understanding how to manage pet-related policies is essential. Whether you’re a landlord or a tenant in Columbus, GA, pet screening and pet deposits play a major role in protecting your property and ensuring a smooth rental experience. At Bickerstaff Parham Real Estate, we help both owners and residents navigate pet-friendly rentals with clarity and confidence.
Key Takeaways
Pet screening helps landlords verify pet details, behavior, and health before approval.
Pet deposits differ from pet fees and pet rent — each has its own purpose and refundability.
A strong pet policy protects landlords, tenants, and animals alike.
Using trusted platforms like PetScreening.com simplifies the verification process.
Clear communication prevents misunderstandings about responsibilities and costs.
Understanding Pet Screening
Pet screening is the process of evaluating a pet before it moves into a rental property. It goes beyond simply allowing or denying animals. It provides a standardized way to collect information about each pet’s breed, age, vaccinations, behavior history, and more.
For landlords in Columbus, GA, pet screening helps ensure that animals are well-behaved and that tenants understand the property’s pet rules before signing a lease.
Pet screening also helps differentiate between household pets, service animals, and emotional support animals (ESAs) — an important legal distinction under the Fair Housing Act. This ensures compliance and fairness for all applicants.
Pet Deposits, Fees, and Pet Rent Explained
It’s common for tenants to be unsure of what a pet deposit covers. A pet deposit is a refundable amount paid upfront to cover potential damages caused by pets.
Here’s how it differs from other pet-related costs:
Pet Deposit: Refundable if no damage occurs.
Pet Fee: A one-time, non-refundable charge for having a pet in the unit.
Pet Rent: A small monthly charge to offset wear and tear over time.
At Bickerstaff Parham Real Estate, we make sure all terms are clearly outlined in the lease, so pet owners know exactly what to expect. Transparency ensures a stress-free renting experience for both parties.
Why Pet Screening Benefits Everyone
For property owners, pet screening reduces risk. It helps identify potential problems early, such as aggressive behavior or large-breed restrictions, before a lease is signed.
For tenants, it’s an opportunity to show responsibility. Verified documentation (vaccination records, training certificates, etc.) can increase trust and even improve your chances of approval.
Proper screening helps maintain harmony in pet-friendly housing and promotes accountability between residents and landlords.
Creating a Clear Pet Policy
A detailed pet policy outlines expectations for cleanliness, noise, and damage prevention. The best policies are consistent, transparent, and adaptable to specific property needs.
At Bickerstaff Parham Real Estate, we tailor pet policies to each property while maintaining compliance with state and federal laws. This ensures that landlords stay protected and residents understand their responsibilities from day one.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is pet screening required for every tenant?
Yes, every applicant with a pet should complete the pet screening process to ensure compliance and transparency.
2. Are pet deposits refundable?
Yes, pet deposits are typically refundable if the pet does not cause damage beyond normal wear and tear.
3. Do service animals or emotional support animals require deposits or fees?
No. Under the Fair Housing Act, landlords cannot charge fees or deposits for service animals or ESAs, though tenants remain responsible for damages.
Pet-Friendly Renting Made Simple
Whether you’re renting out your home or searching for a pet-friendly property in Columbus, GA, pet screening and deposits create a foundation of trust and accountability. At Bickerstaff Parham Real Estate, our goal is to make pet ownership in rental housing as simple and transparent as possible, ensuring a positive experience for both owners and tenants.
Learn more about our pet policies and available rentals. Contact us today!
More Resources:
Why You Should Get a Rental Analysis for Your Property in Columbus, GA
How Section 8 Decides if Your Rent Is Reasonable in Columbus, GA
