We all love pets but they can cause trouble for you if you are looking for a rental property because most landlords don’t allow you to rent their properties if you have pets with you. Finding pet-friendly rental properties can be difficult for several reasons, including:
- Landlord policies:
Some landlords have strict policies against pets, which limits the number of available properties and makes the rental property hunt more difficult for you.
- Competition:
There may be a high demand for pet-friendly properties, leading to increased competition among renters.
- Additional costs:
Renting a pet-friendly property often involves additional fees, such as pet deposits and monthly pet rent, which can make finding affordable housing more challenging.
- Lack of awareness:
Landlords may not be aware of the demand for pet-friendly properties and may not advertise their properties by highlighting this factor.
- Restrictions on breed and size: Some landlords have restrictions on the size and breed of pets, which can further limit the ratio of available properties.
Can my landlord kick me out for pets?
It depends on the terms of your rental agreement and the laws in your state or municipality. If you have a lease agreement that prohibits pets and you bring one into your rental without the landlord’s permission, they may have grounds to terminate your lease and require you to vacate the property. However, if you have a lease agreement that allows pets or if you have a verbal agreement with the landlord, they may not be able to kick you out for having a pet.
In some states, there are laws that protect tenants with disabilities who use service animals from being evicted, even if the lease prohibits pets. However, it is important to be familiar with the laws in your area and to discuss your situation with a qualified legal professional if you have any issues.
Do I need to pay extra to keep my pets on the rental property?
Yes, it is common for landlords to charge additional fees for pets in rental properties. These fees may include a pet deposit, pet rent, or a non-refundable pet fee. The exact amount and type of fee will vary depending on the landlord and the property, but the purpose is to cover any potential damage that the pet may cause to the rental unit. Some landlords may also charge a higher monthly rent if you have a pet.
So you should be aware of these fees when searching for a pet-friendly rental property, and add them to your budget. It is also a good idea to carefully review the terms of the rental agreement to ensure that you understand your obligations and responsibilities regarding your pet.
Why are landlords against pets?
There are several reasons why landlords may be against allowing pets in their rental properties:
- Damage:
Pets can cause damage to the rental unit, such as scratches on the floor or walls, or holes in the carpet. Landlords may be concerned about the cost of repairing this damage and may choose to restrict pets as a result.
- Noise:
Pets can make noise, especially dogs, which may disturb other tenants and be a source of complaints.
- Liability:
Landlords may be concerned about potential liability issues if a pet causes injury to another person or causes damage to someone else’s property.
- Maintenance:
Pets can require more frequent cleaning and maintenance of the rental unit, which can be time-consuming and costly for the landlord.
- Allergies:
Some tenants may be allergic to pets, which can cause discomfort or health problems.
These concerns can make landlords hesitant to allow pets in their rental properties, but all landlords do not have the same policies, and some may be more flexible or willing to make exceptions for well-behaved pets.