Is your pet an essential part of your life? Then it's crucial to find a pet-friendly apartment community. Generally, most communities will allow your cat or dog to reside in your home as long as you pay a pet deposit and pet rent. When landlords say they are "pet-friendly," you may be wondering what exactly that entails, and we are here to answer that question.
Which Pets Are Generally Allowed
When it comes to which pets are allowed in a community, it's always best to talk to the landlord for specifics. It's generally limited to domestic pets like cats and dogs but keep in mind that each state has different rules and regulations when it comes to owning animals. It is generally a safe bet to consider that if you can buy the pet from a store like Petco or Petsmart, you can probably keep it in your apartment; this includes small-caged animals like hamsters, birds, and reptiles.
Which Pets are Not Allowed
If your pet is not a typical domestic pet, you may want to talk to the landlord before applying. Exotic pets, in particular, are generally not allowed, ranging from ferrets and chinchillas to snakes and fish; this is especially true if you live in a state where your pet is on a list of protected species. You also want to avoid bringing large pets into your home not only for the sake of the apartment but also for the animal's benefit. Many pet-friendly apartments will have weight limits for pets simply out of consideration for their health and wellness.
How Many Pets are Allowed
No one wants to move into an apartment previously rented out by someone and their abundance of pets. Animals can damage homes, especially when there are multiple pets in the same home, playing, eating, and relieving themselves. You'll find that most apartment communities will allow a maximum of two pets, although this may vary. If you own more than one pet, it's always best to discuss the matter with the landlord before applying for the apartment.
If you're moving soon and plan to bring your four-legged family members with you, be sure to do your research. The last thing you want is to lease a home only to discover that Fido can't come with you. Have any questions about leasing with pets? Share them with us in the comments below.