For so many of us, pets are the best companions and a big part of our lives. For this reason, a pet-friendly house or apartment is often a very important - and nonnegotiable - part of a move. Speaking from my own experience, it can be really challenging to find a rental property that meets all the criteria, at the right price, and is also pet-friendly. Over the years, I have struggled to find new housing that is pet-friendly. Now, in our house, we have an adopted dog who is four years old, and last year we rescued 2 kittens. These fur babies are near and dear to us and will move with us wherever we may go.
Starting the Conversation With Your Landlord
Let’s be honest, though. Pets make a move more complicated. Based on my experience, many landlords are more willing to accept pets so long as the terms are defined clearly in the lease. At the end of the day, pet owners need to demonstrate transparency in order to build trust. Tenants should be honest about any pets in a rental property - whether it’s a bird, guinea pig, or even goldfish.
How to start the conversation about pets? Without hesitation, my top advice is to be forthcoming and straightforward. If you are transparent about the number of pets and their history, you will gain trust more easily as far as how you will care for the property. For example, as a manager of short-term rental properties, I have received “pet resumes” about animals that contain a history of medical care and vaccinations. Of course, cute photos can help too!
References from prior landlords, animal trainers, or pet sitting services may also be helpful. If the landlord is agreeable, you could even offer an opportunity to meet with the pet as part of the interview process.
More than anything, take the time to think about the landlord’s perspective. I have often advised tenants to offer a pet deposit up front. A one-time deposit demonstrates a commitment to be a responsible tenant and may help avoid a recurring pet rent fee.
Planning a Smooth Move for You and Your Pets
Moving can be stressful for all, including pets. It’s important to have a plan for how the pets will be transported and then acclimated to the new space.
On moving day, be sure to have a plan to keep pets secure, especially while doors are open and items are being moved. One good option is to board pets during a transition week. If that is not an option, consider how the pets can remain secure in one designated area. This type of approach can calm the situation as far as any possible escapes, and create a more secure and calming environment for the pets.
Going into the new space, a designated and defined small area in the new home can allow time for the pets to adjust. Also, it can ensure that there is less risk as far as any potential damage in the new space…just in case there are any accidents!
Being a Responsible Pet Owner Tenant
In addition, while renters insurance is always recommended, pet owners will demonstrate even greater responsibility and accountability if the rental insurance covers any pet damage. From my experience, many pet owners are so grateful to find a pet-friendly rental that they are willing to pay an extra fee and often go above and beyond in terms of their care of the property. Yet, accidents do happen, and responsible pet ownership means communicating about any issues that arise - and, in my opinion, assuming responsibility for any pet-related damage.
From a long-term perspective, a tenant is more likely to maintain a better relationship and potential to renew a rental agreement! - if there is a willingness to make repairs or to cover the costs of damage. In real estate, one of the hardest issues to address upon the sale of a property is lingering pet odors, especially cat urine.
It is really unfair - and perhaps even impossible! - to hide these issues from a property owner. Recently, I went on a tour with a prospective buyer to a house with an in-law suite for potential rental income. Upon opening one of the doors, we were hit immediately with the pungent odor even though the house is vacant. It was so overwhelming that we left the house quickly. Along with some others who had visited the property, I provided feedback to the listing agent. The situation is so bad that she had to send out a message indicating that the property will have professional remediation in order to address the smell.
While this type of situation is really extreme, it does happen. For this reason, pet owners need to take into account the property owner’s perspective when seeking a rental.
Understanding Service Animals and the Law
Also, pet owners should not make claims that a pet is a service animal or an emotional support animal without appropriate documentation. It is amazing and life-changing how trained animals can support individuals with disabilities. Under the Fair Housing Act (FHA), landlords are not permitted to prohibit Service Animals. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) extends similar protections in public spaces and businesses. Unfortunately, it has become fairly common for people to misrepresent pets or therapy animals as Service Animals in order to circumvent “No Pets” policies.
Under the ADA, service animals are pets (specifically dogs or in some cases mini horses) “that have been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability” and must be under the control of their handler at all times (i.e., not left alone in the home). Emotional support, therapy, comfort, or companion animals are not considered Service Animals.
The Bottom Line for Pet-Owning Renters
While we all love our pets and may even consider them part of the family, it’s important to respect the laws and rules for these situations. Landlords and business owners face struggling situations where people may attempt to bring in a pet that is not truly a Service Animal, and such misrepresentations can cause a lot of frustration.
In my humble opinion, many landlords also love animals and have their own pets. An honest, open dialogue is a good start to any new rental agreement. If pets are involved, the tenant should take proactive steps to demonstrate responsible pet ownership. In doing so, they will more likely be able to find a stable, long-term situation that works on all sides!
