Pet Policy
At Black Pine Property Management, we understand that pets are part of the family. Many of our homes are pet-friendly, and we welcome responsible pet owners who are committed to keeping their pets and their homes well cared for.
Our goal is to create a safe, clean environment for everyone while protecting each homeowner’s property.
Pet Approval Process
All pets must be formally approved through our pet-screening process before they are allowed on the property. This process verifies important details such as breed, age, size, vaccination records, spay/neuter status, and prior rental history.
Each pet receives a 1–5 score, which helps determine eligibility and monthly pet rent. Pets with higher scores represent lower risk and are approved at a lower monthly rate.
Only pets listed in your Lease and Pet Addendum are permitted on the premises.
Any unapproved or visiting animals are considered unauthorized pets and are a lease violation.
Monthly Pet Rent
Your monthly pet rent is based on your pet’s screening score and ranges from $50–$100 per month, per pet.
This amount reflects your pet’s risk profile, covers the administrative costs of managing pets, and contributes to the Black Pine Pet Guarantee, our commitment to maintaining pet-friendly homes responsibly.
Pet Fees and Purpose
All pet-related fees and pet rent are non-refundable and retained by Black Pine to:
Support the pet screening and approval process
Offset additional administrative, inspection, and maintenance costs
Fund the Black Pine Pet Guarantee, which provides added protection for the property
Your Responsibility as a Pet Owner
Tenants remain fully responsible for all pet-related damages to the property including flooring, doors, trim, walls, landscaping, or other surfaces.
You must promptly report any pet-related incidents or damages to our office.
Unauthorized pets, or failure to report a new pet, may result in an Unauthorized Pet Fee and additional lease enforcement actions.
Service and Support Animals
Verified service animals and emotional support animals are not considered pets under Fair Housing regulations.
They are always accepted with proper documentation and are exempt from pet fees and pet rent.
Inspections and Compliance
Routine property inspections may include pet compliance checks to confirm the pets listed on your lease are the ones residing in the home. These visits help us maintain property standards and ensure a positive experience for everyone.
Risk-Based Pet Screening
Every pet is screened through our third-party partner (OurPetPolicy) before approval. This process evaluates each animal’s age, breed characteristics, size, spay/neuter status, vaccination records, behavioral history, and prior rental references. Each pet receives a 1–5 score which determines eligibility and monthly pet rent.
| Score | Risk Level | Typical Profile | Monthly Pet Rent | Decision |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 – Excellent | Very Low Risk | Fully vaccinated, spayed/neutered, docile breed | $50 / mo per pet | Approved – base rate |
| 4 – Good | Low Risk | Minor risk factor (young or large breed) | $65 / mo per pet | Approved – standard rate |
| 3 – Fair | Moderate Risk | Unneutered or limited records | $80 / mo per pet | Conditional – may add deposit |
| 2 – Poor | High Risk | Limited history or past complaints | $100 / mo per pet | Conditional or deny |
| 1 – Unacceptable | Very High Risk | Aggression or falsified records | Not eligible | Denied |