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Pet owners usually find it hard to locate an apartment right for them because most apartment buildings do not allow pets.
Often, apartment owners hesitate to grade their apartment building as pet friendly because they are concerned about the potential damage that can be caused to their property. Apartment buildings that are pet friendly typically have strict restrictions, especially for dogs, on size and quantity, for example. While searching for apartments, it is essential for pet owners to learn in advance what an apartment building's rules are regarding dogs and other animals.
Rent.com understands what an important part of your life and family your pets are. With our specialized listings, we can help you find an apartment that is perfect for you and your four-legged loved ones.
Being a canine owner, you'll have to keep your pet's needs in mind as well as your own when looking for accommodations. To help you find the perfect pet friendly apartment, we've listed a few pointers below that can help you evaluate each potential apartment listing.
Don't waste your time looking at apartments which have a "no pet" rule, or only allow cats. While some pet friendly apartment communities welcome dogs, others won't due to objections from renters. To make your search efficient, start with apartment listings that clearly state they allow dogs. If you can't find the right home for you from that selection, then look at other apartment listings that are more vague or don't state a pet policy online. It never hurts to ask whether pets are allowed or whether a pet deposit can be negotiated or created if no policy is in place. If you are able to come to an agreement with a landlord, get the policy in writing.
Make sure to read apartment listings and pet policies carefully. Some dog friendly accommodations only allow certain breeds or have restrictions on the size of the canine. If your pet is aggressive or the size of your pet is larger than what's allowed, then there is usually no point in trying to convince the manager to accept your pet because the liability for them could be too great. Instead, try looking for private homes to rent where you can discuss the situation with the owner.
It is important to make sure you get a copy of the written pet policy agreement from the apartment owner or manager clearly stating that your canine is welcome in that community. Address any concerns immediately in writing so you won't have any hassle later.
To snag good pet friendly apartments, it also helps to have the following on hand:
References from veterinarians, former landlords, and neighbors that your pet is well behaved and groomed, and that you are a responsible owner.
Information on your pet including the license, vaccination records, proof of neutering, and certificate from obedience class.
Most apartments require a $100 to $500 pet deposit and charge a $20 monthly rental for each pet. To avoid any surprise expenses, check in advance if the apartment you've chosen requires a pet deposit or pet rental, and if the deposit amount is refundable. This will pay for any damages caused by your pet like scratched hard wood floors, stained carpets that require replacing, and other physical damage. If you have a small dog or more than one dog, ask the landlord whether the deposit and fee apply to all of your pets as a group or if you have to pay per dog.
Pet policies vary depending on the apartment community. It is crucial that you adhere to the written policy. Violating the terms of you policy could result in fines, penalties, or even eviction. Some typical pet policy rules include:
Restrictions on the size and types of dogs allowed
Keeping the pet on a leash at all times when outside
Cleaning up after the animal and keeping it vaccinated in accordance with state law
Signing the pet policy agreement and paying a pet deposit
Before signing the lease agreement, visit the apartment's neighborhood at different times or on different days to see if there are other pet owners walking their dogs, or go for a drive around the area to see if there are any local parks nearby that welcome dogs. See if there are well-lit walking trails for those inevitable late night walks, and whether there are any veterinarians nearby in case of an emergency.
Many dogs can live happily in an apartment as long as you fulfill their requirement for exercise and companionship. Canine lovers should not be robbed of an opportunity to own dogs in a city, and the best way to be a good dog-owning tenant is to be a responsible owner by cleaning up after the dogs and by showing consideration towards your neighbors.
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