Pets/No Pets Policy
Renter Answers

If you are looking for a place to rent and have a pet, you may encounter apartment managers and rental owners who have a "no pets" policy.  Persuading the property management company for an apartment community to change its rules is difficult. You may have better luck with an owner of a rental home, duplex or similar property.
         
Many rental owners establish a no pets policy because they either had a bad experience with pets or know of others who did. Unless you require a service or companion animal, such as a guide dog for the blind, a no pet policy is legal. However, there are ways to persuade an owner to allow your pet.
         
First, if you rented in the past with your pet without any problems, ask your former rental manager or owner to provide a reference. Request a letter that explains that you were a responsible pet owner who did not allow your pet to destroy the carpet or bark in the middle of the night.  In addition, provide a phone number so your new rental owner can contact your reference directly.
         
Second, offer to sign an agreement that will hold you responsible and financially liable for the actions of your pet. Owners who don’t allow pets probably won’t have such a document, but a pet agreement form is available from your local rental housing association. This agreement describes your responsibilities as a pet owner and clearly states that violations of the agreement could result in termination of your tenancy. If you offer this contract to the rental owner and agree to comply with its terms, you may overcome any objections.
         
Third, offer to provide a higher security deposit. Knowing that any potential damage is already covered by a substantial deposit can be an effective argument.
         
Finally, let your owner see your pet. Arrange to bring your pet or take its photo to show to the owner. Unless your animal is a vicious, 200-pound monster, it never hurts to enable the rental owner to see the size and personality of your pet.
         
Once you have persuaded the rental owner to accept your pet, be sure to live up to your commitment. You will do yourself and other pet lovers a favor.