Your pet is part of the family, so you want to make sure they’re welcome wherever you rent. From understanding pet policies to preventing your four-legged companion from leaving a lasting pawprint on the property, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Whether you’re moving with a playful pup, a curious cat or a chatty bird, here’s how to navigate the rental process and find a home that’s both pet-friendly and hassle-free!
Almost half of renters live with pets, according to Zillow. Pet owners tend to be responsible and reliable. They renew their leases more frequently than non-pet owners. In this regard, they’re desirable tenants. There is a chance with pets, of course, of damage to the rental property or possible disturbances with neighbors. Landlords who welcome pets will make accommodations, such as charging a pet feet, to minimize their financial risk.
Importantly, not every property is ready to welcome your pet. The following steps will help guide you in finding the perfect home.
Research pet-friendly rentals.
Start your search early. It will take extra time to find the right fit. There are several ways to find pet-friendly rentals in your area. Importantly, do not try to hide the fact that you have a pet. That would put you in violation of your lease.
- Ask friends and family members to keep a lookout for pet-friendly places.
- Inquire about pet-friendly apartments and homes in pet groups on social media, at the local Humane Society, and at your veterinarian.
- When searching rental websites, look for filters for pets. Make sure to check if there are restrictions on types, breeds, or numbers of pets.
- If a rental does not mention pets, don’t discount it. Reach out and ask. Single family rentals may be more likely to be flexible on a case-by-case basis.
- Some websites allow you to search for pet-friendly rentals. These include Apartment Advisor, Hotpads, People with Pets, and Zillow.
Note that landlords are required by the Fair Housing Act to make reasonable accommodations for disabled renters with service dogs, even if they don’t generally allow pets.
Create a pet resume.
One effective way to present your pet to your future landlord is by creating a pet resume. This can help turn tolerant landlords into pet-friendly ones.
- Start with a cute photo, your pet’s name, age, breed, and weight. For dogs and cats, note whether they are spayed.
- Describe your pet’s personality and favorite things.
- Include a list of vaccinations and proof your pet is licensed in the town, showing you are a responsible pet owner.
- If there are any past incidents, include them and tell how you will take action to prevent them in the future.
- Get a reference letter from your current landlord, your trainer, or previous roommates about your pet. Make sure to talk about areas of concern to landlords: behavior around others, odor, noise, etc.
- You may find a sample resume here: https://rentberry.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/Dogs-resume-sample-by-Rentberry.pdf.
Set an extra budget.
Be prepared to pay extra when renting with a pet, as compared to those without pets. The landlord must cover his/her risk in case there is damage. For example, carpets may have to be replaced when a renter leaves if a pet urinated there.
- Expect to pay a pet deposit ranging from $250 to $500. The landlord can use this money to make repairs when you leave. However, it may or may not be refundable, so make sure to ask.
- You may be charged a monthly pet rental fee in addition to your own rent.
- Note that if you have a service animal, your landlord cannot charge you a pet fee. It is against federal law to do so.
- Review local and state laws as they apply to pets. Some states limit what landlords can charge in pet fees.
Check out the space for your pet.
Once you find a good rental, you will want to visit it and check it out. What you see online may not always be what’s there in reality. A personal visit will show you if it’s right for you and your pet.
- Find out if there are any restrictions on where pets can go.
- If your pet needs an outdoor space, is there a backyard area? A nearby park or place to walk?
- If you have a small living space and no backyard, make sure that setup will be right for your pet.
- For cats, keep them entertained with multi-level living such as cat condos and kitty condos placed up high.
- Check whether there are plants that are poisonous to your pets on the property.
Read your lease thoroughly.
Before you sign a lease at your new place, make sure that it says exactly what you were promised by your landlord. Specifically check that it spells out the pet policy.
- Never sign a lease that says no pets even if the landlord verbally gives you permission. Make sure it is written in your lease that pets are allowed.
- The lease should clearly outline pet deposits and fees.
- Take the time to understand and agree to the rules you and your pet must follow.
Include pet coverage in your renter’s insurance.
Many landlords require you to have renter’s insurance. It’s also a good idea to have it to protect you, your possessions—and your pets.
- Renter’s insurance is like homeowner’s insurance but for tenants. As a start, it protects your personal belongings (that’s right, your landlord’s insurance policy will not cover your belongings) but that’s not all. It’s an important safeguard if you’re found at fault for property damage or injuries at your place (and even around the world). It also can help if you don’t have access to your apartment or home due to a covered loss.
- Adding your pet to your renter’s policy will cover you if your pet damages someone else’s property or injures another pet or person.
- Note that sometimes, there are breed restrictions for coverage.
Moving with Your Pet
Your pets are part of the family, but moving day will be particularly stressful for them. After all, they won’t understand why strangers are taking their furniture. With all the commotion, it’s also easy for a pet to get lost in the shuffle, or have a scared animal run away or hide. Consider having relatives or friends take care of your pets or board them in a kennel for moving day. Also make sure that you have your pet’s records for easy access when you need them.
Are you renting without a pet but would like to adopt? Make sure your lease allows it. Finally, don’t forget to protect your fur baby with pet insurance for added peace of mind, and to save on your vet bill. Remember, you can easily add pet insurance from Pet’s Best to your California Casualty auto or home policy. Find out more about what pet insurance can cover by talking with a California Casualty customer service representative today.
This article is furnished by California Casualty, providing auto and home insurance to educators, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and nurses. Get a quote at 1.866.704.8614 or www.calcas.com.
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