Finding the perfect property to rent can be tricky. You have to worry about the location, rent, amenities and so much more. However, adding on the challenge of renting with pets can make it even more of a hassle.
There are things that you need to think about before renting a property, especially if you already have a pet. Typically, the problem won’t be with smaller pets like cats and small dogs. However, large dogs or breeds that have bad reputations – even if it doesn’t apply to your dog – can be very difficult to rent with.
Here are a few tips and tricks for renting with pets.
Search for Pet Friendly Rental Properties
Some properties allow pets, some don’t allow dogs, and some don’t allow cats. It’s all up to the owner.
This one might be a no brainer but many listing sites include a feature that will filter out all properties that don’t allow pets.
Even if the listing states that pets are negotiable, asking if your pet would be allowed is your best bet. Some landlords allow cats but not dogs, some don’t want cats at all, and some have a 35 lbs limit for dogs. This can be due to the owner’s preference or specific details like the property type. It’s nothing personal.
For LeasingandManagement.com, we have pet details in the listings of our available rentals.
Review the Lease
An owner could say that it’s okay to rent with a pet but If the lease says “No Pets Allowed” don’t sign it. The lease is a legal contract and anything else is mainly “he said, she said.” If something happens and the owner states that they didn’t allow pets to begin with, then you could be held at fault.
Be Mindful of the Extra Cost
Typically, there will be a pet deposit around $250 to $350 per pet. This covers any damages that your pet might cause during your lease. Additionally, there might be a pet rent fee that is added onto your monthly rent. This could be around $15 to $30.
When budgeting for a rental property with a pet, adding an additional $400 onto the marketed price will help you prepare for the cost.
Make Sure the Property has Enough Space
It’s best to make sure that dogs have a spot for themselves to relax. This will keep their stress levels down and help them adjust to the new place.
This is a must if you have a pup that has a lot of energy. A rental property with a fenced in yard might be your best bet. However, some rental properties are in communities that have walking trails and dog parks.
You don’t want to be stuck in a small, one bedroom apartment with a large dog. Take the floor plan into consideration before signing the lease.
It’s also beneficial for your pet to have his/her own space. Giving them a little bed and corner to call their own can help reduce their stress. It could even help keep them off the furniture – another plus for the landlord if the property came furnished.
We all love our fur babies but the truth is many landlords would prefer not having pets in their rental properties. This isn’t a personal attack against your beloved pooch. Let’s look at it from another perspective.
The Landlord’s/Property Manager’s Perspective
Taking the landlord’s perspective into consideration can help you understand why they don’t allow pets.
Many owners of rental properties fear that pets will damage their properties. This could be caused by the pet having accidents inside, ripping up carpeting, or scratching up furniture. Even if your pet is extremely well behaved, there’s always that chance that any of these situations can happen.
Having a rental property that allows pets can also chase away other potential tenants. The property might pick up a certain smell or they might be allergic to cats or dogs.
That being said, there are some precautions you can take to make sure your pet is rent ready.
Make a Pet Resume
If a listing states that pets are negotiable or even if it states “no pets” you can always try to see if they would make an exception.
Here’s a good example of what a pet resume can look like!
As ridiculous as it sounds, a pet resume backs up your claim that your “good boy” is actually a good boy. Here, past landlords and property managers can give their word that your pet was well behaved and didn’t damage properties. You can submit this to the owner or the property management company for them to review. It doesn’t hurt to give it a try, right?
In the resume, you should include:
- A picture of your dog
- Behavioral Traits
- Size and breed
- Any training background
- Medical history and a list of their shots
Here’s a great article that goes into more detail on creating a pet resume!
BE RESPONSIBLE
This is more for the pet owner. Renting with pets is like having kids, they misbehave and need to be disciplined – with love, of course. If you don’t train your pets – or make sure that they know what not to do, at least – then chances are they might damage the property and cost you your security deposit.
If you are having difficulties training your pet yourself then signing them up for a behavioral class might be for the best – this would be great to put on their resume!
Puppies and kittens are bound to have accidents, its what they do when they’re learning. To plan ahead for the inevitable, you could place disposable matts down just in case.
If the owner of a rental property is set on not having pets then there isn’t much you can do. However, if the pet policy is negotiable, these tips and tricks will help make renting with pets so much easier.
Think of something that we missed? Let us know at inquiries@landmllc.com!