Finding the perfect apartment for yourself can be difficult. But when you have to find a place for you and your dog or kitty, it’s even harder.
But for all of us pet lovers, finding a place that allows our furry friends isn’t even an option – it’s a necessity.
If you’re looking for a pet-friendly apartment, there are some things you need to know. Keep reading for seven pro tips on apartment hunting for you and your pet.
1. Ask About Pet Fees
Don’t sign a lease until you know how much the place will cost you. Even if it seems like your dream apartment, you need to be sure you can afford it.
Most landlords charge pet fees in addition to rent. Find out if you’ll have to pay a security deposit, or extra rent each month. Some landlords may charge you one of these things (or both).
Whatever the extra fees are, make sure they’re outlined in the lease!
2. Ask if There are Restrictions or Regulations
Some landlords allow cats but not dogs. Some allow small dogs under a certain weight but forbid large dogs. Don’t sign a rental agreement until you know what the restrictions are. It is good to have dogs for healthy life if you have dogs.
You can’t assume that your pet is allowed just because animals are welcome.
Be realistic about your dog’s size. Don’t move into an apartment that they’ll eventually outgrow, even if they’re tiny now.
There’s no point in settling into a new place with a puppy who’s going to exceed the size restrictions in six months. If you do, you’re setting yourself up for fines, fees, and the possibility of having to move again.
3. Research How Pet-Friendly the Apartment Is
For pet owners, the idea of moving without your four-legged friend is unimaginable. Before you start your apartment search, do some research so that you know what the landlord allows.
Some apartment complexes welcome animals, but others encourage them. If you really want your pup to be happy in your new place, look for a building or complex that has a designated play area for dogs outside.
At the very least, make sure that the pathways around the building are well-lit for late-night walks with your pup.
4. Research the Neighborhood
Unless your apartment has a designated dog park, you’ll want to make sure that the surrounding area is pet-friendly. Check your proximity to local parks, dog parks, and dog runs to ensure that you have easy access to an outdoor place where your dog can run and play.
5. Create a Pet Profile
Finding a pet-friendly apartment in your budget is great – but that doesn’t mean you’ll get in. If there’s one unit available and ten potential tenants who want to rent the place, you’ll have to take a few extra steps.
You’ll have to sell yourself (and your furry friend) to become the lucky tenant who gets to sign the lease.
One good way to do so is to create a “pet resume.” This resume should list any obedience training they’ve had or certifications they’ve received. It should also include their vaccination history.
In this profile, you should provide proof that your pet is spayed or neutered. Many apartments have a limit on the number of animals you can have, so it’s good to show proof that you won’t have any unexpected puppies or kittens running around! Do you like traveling with your dog? So check the easy way for it.
It’s also a good idea to include a few letters of recommendation in your pet resume.
If your dog or cat behaved themselves in other apartments, ask your former landlord to write a brief letter of recommendation. This is a great way to show that your pet isn’t likely to cause any trouble.
6. Get Pet Insurance
There’s no doubt about it – pets are a liability. And landlords have to protect their properties as much as they possibly can. Property owners are much more likely to rent to you and your companion if you have an insurance policy that covers them. As an owner, before renting out property, you should know all about this.
Many renters’ insurance policies have a pet liability clause. This usually increases your insurance premiums, but it also protects against damage done to the property. In some cases, a pet liability clause will even cover dog bites should your dog bite another person (or another dog).
7. Know Your Rights About Support Animals
If you have a pet, it’s important to know your rights. A landlord has the option to refuse tenancy if they don’t allow animals.
However:
If you have a disability that requires you to have a service dog or an emotional support animal, they can’t refuse to rent to you. Even landlords with a no-pet clause in their lease have to allow them under these circumstances.
If you can prove that your pet is needed to help with your disability, let the landlord know.
One other thing to note is that service animals and emotional support pets are exempt from additional fees. Your landlord cannot charge any fees or ask for a larger deposit for animals that fall under these categories.
Conclusion
When apartment hunting for you and your pet, narrow down your searches from the start by looking only at places that’ll take both of you.
Ask if there are any extra fees. Inquire about the rules and restrictions regarding the types of animals you can have. Check out the complex and surrounding area to make sure that there are parks, well-lit streets, and places for your pet to exercise.
Create a pet profile with vaccination records and letters of recommendation. Get insurance that will cover any pet damage and let your landlord know that your animal is covered.
If you follow these tips, you’re sure to find the perfect new home for yourself and your fluffy little friend. Then, all you have to do is make your apartment as pet-friendly as possible!
