Is it Possible to Negotiate Having a Pet in Your Rental?
Those who rent houses or apartments will often wonder, at one point or another, if it is possible to negotiate having a pet in one’s rental. There is no one answer to this question, except to say that the answer always depends on one’s individual situation. It is better never to assume that it is okay to bring in a pet, as this can lead to problems with one’s landlord, disappointment at having to get rid of a new pet, or even eviction, depending on the conditions of one’s lease.
The rental agreement or lease is actually one of the most important factors in determining whether or not one is allowed to have a pet in the rental house or apartment. If renters are considering having a pet, they should get out a copy of their lease and reread the terms and conditions to which they have agreed. In most cases, pet policies will be clearly outlined in the lease. If they are not, this is not necessarily an indication that pets are discouraged, and renters should contact their landlord or leasing office to inquire about pet policies.
The landlord or leasing office is another important part of determining if pet policies are negotiable. In most large apartment buildings or mass owned housing complexes where a leasing office is involved, terms will not be negotiable. If the apartment or housing complex is a no pets area, then pets will not usually be allowed under any circumstances. If one has an emergency or special circumstance, however, such as needing a sick relative’s pet to visit temporarily, this can sometimes be arranged, depending on one’s leasing office and whether or not strict policies are in effect. For apartments and homes that do allow pets, renters will often be required to provide proof of the animal’s vaccinations and vet visits/ medical history and pay a pet deposit and sometimes an additional monthly fee known as “pet rent.” Many apartments and houses also place limits on the amount of pets one can have or on the types of pets one can have. Certain dog breeds, such as Rottweilers or Pit Bulls, are often on a “breed restriction list,” and animals usually have to be of a certain age as well.
If one rents from an individual or someone independent of any company, this is when policies or lease agreements have a better chance of being altered. This is particularly true if the renter has lived in the dwelling for an extended period of time or has an especially good relationship with his or her landlord or landlords. In personalized circumstances such as this, renters can often reach off the lease agreements with the landlord(s).
It is also important to note that policies are different for service animals, such as police or seeing eye dogs. Many landlords are required to allow for these types of animals. No matter what the situation, however, it is always best to be honest and upfront with one’s landlord or leasing office.
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