Renting With Pets: What To Know and How To Prepare

Renting with pets can be a great experience, but it requires a bit more planning and communication. From pet policies to added fees and lease terms, there are several important factors to keep in mind to avoid surprises and ensure a positive rental experience for both you and your furry companion.

Here are five key tips for successfully renting with pets.

1.  Search for Verified Pet-Friendly Listings
Begin your housing search by filtering for pet-friendly rentals on platforms like Zillow, Apartments.com, or HotPads. While many listings claim to be pet-friendly, this often comes with limits on pet size, breed, or number.
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Look out for:
    ▪︎  Breed restrictions (especially for dogs)
         ▪︎  Weight limits (commonly under 40 or 50 pounds)
         ▪︎  Limit on number of pets per unit
         ▪︎  Requirements for pet references or vaccination records
Never assume that pets are allowed unless it is explicitly stated in the lease. If the lease terms are unclear, request written confirmation from the landlord or property manager.

2. Understand Fees, Deposits, and Insurance
Landlords are legally allowed to charge additional fees for pets in most jurisdictions. These fees can vary, and it is important to understand which are refundable.

Common charges include:
         ▪︎  Pet rent: A recurring monthly fee, often $25 to $50 per pet
         ▪︎  Pet deposit: A refundable fee to cover potential damage
         ▪︎  Nonrefundable pet fee: A one-time charge that covers cleaning or wear and tear
In some cities and states, laws limit how much a landlord can charge in pet-related fees. Additionally, consider renters insurance with pet liability coverage to protect yourself in case of pet-related accidents or damage.

3. Submit a Strong Rental Application with Pet Documentation
If you are applying for a competitive rental or your landlord has concerns, include a pet resume or documentation that shows you are a responsible pet owner.

Helpful items to include:
         ▪︎  A short pet bio with age, breed, behavior, and temperament
         ▪︎  Proof of spay/neuter and vaccinations
         ▪︎  A letter of reference from a previous landlord or property manager
         ▪︎  Evidence of renters insurance with pet liability coverage
         ▪︎  Recent photos of your pet
Being proactive can help reassure landlords and increase your chances of being approved.

4. Prevent Issues Once You Move In
Once you’re settled, take steps to keep the rental in good condition and avoid disturbances to neighbors.

Tips to protect your rental and your pet:
         ▪︎  Use area rugs or furniture covers to reduce wear and tear
         ▪︎  Clean up pet waste regularly (indoors and outdoors)
         ▪︎  Keep pets groomed to reduce shedding and allergens
         ▪︎  Invest in toys or activities for pets prone to anxiety or boredom
         ▪︎  Avoid leaving pets alone for long periods, especially if they bark or howl
Addressing potential issues early can help avoid fines, complaints, or non-renewal of your lease.

5. Know Your Rights and Local Laws
Tenant protections vary, but some general rules apply:
         ▪︎  If your lease allows pets, the landlord cannot change the policy mid-lease unless there is a breach of terms
         ▪︎  Emotional support animals (ESAs) and service animals are protected by federal law and do not count as pets under most rental rules
         ▪︎  In many areas, landlords cannot charge pet fees or deposits for ESAs or service animals
Check your city or state’s landlord-tenant laws and consult a legal aid resource if you encounter issues.

Recommendations
         ▪︎  Look for rentals that explicitly allow pets and avoid assumptions
         ▪︎  Get pet policies and fees in writing before signing a lease
         ▪︎  Submit a complete application with pet documents and references
         ▪︎  Keep your rental in good condition and be a respectful pet owner
         ▪︎  Understand the difference between pets, emotional support animals, and service animals under the law
         ▪︎  Renting with pets requires a little more planning, but with the right approach, you can find housing that works for both you and your companion. Preparation, transparency, and care go a long way in building trust with your landlord and creating a stable home environment.

Sources
         ▪︎  U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Assistance Animals
         ▪︎  Zillow – Renting with Pets Guide
         ▪︎  ASPCA – Renting with Pets
         ▪︎  American Humane – Pet Friendly Housing Tips
         ▪︎  Nolo – Pet Policies and Landlord-Tenant Law
         ▪︎  Avma.org – What You Should Know About Renting with Pets
         ▪︎  Legal Aid – California Tenants’ Rights and Pets (sample state resource)