How Do I Add A Pet To My Lease?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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There’s no law that requires landlords to allow tenants to keep pets, and many landlords don’t allow pets because of the potential damage they cause to the rental unit. If you want to add a pet to your lease,

talk to your landlord and get an agreement in writing before you bring your new pet home

.

How do I ask my landlord for a pet?

When asking your landlord for a pet, give them as much information as possible.

Draft a letter and include the type of animal, breed

, age, temperament, the training they have received and how much time they will be spending alone. Include cute pet pictures if possible.

Can landlords stop you from having pets?


Landlords can still stop tenants from keeping pets

but must offer a reasonable excuse for refusal in writing within 28 days of the tenant’s request. Reasonable excuses would include a ban in smaller homes or flats where owning a pet might be impractical, said the minister.

Do you have to tell landlord about pets?

Under the new Model Tenancy Agreement, landlords will no longer be able to issue blanket bans on pets. Instead,

consent for pets will be the default position

and landlords will have to object in writing within 28 days of a written pet request from a tenant and provide a good reason.

Can my landlord evict me for having a dog?


Your landlord cannot go into your apartment

and remove a pet or show up and force you or your pet out. Landlords have to follow the law and go through a legal process to remove tenants or their pets.

What happens if you don’t tell your landlord about a pet?

In some cases, your landlord may fine you if you sneak in a pet without approval. … If your landlord asks for an amount not detailed in the lease,

you may be able to file a case in civil court to recoup your costs

, but the court doesn’t have the legal right to allow you to keep the pet.

Can landlords charge extra for pets?

Pet damage is a very common occurrence with rental homes. … This is why many landlords charge a monthly “pet rent” in addition to a “pet deposit” or “pet fee.” As a side note,

charging any additional amount as a deposit or fee for a service animal or emotional support animal

is a violation of fair housing laws.

Why do landlords say no pets?

Here are a few common reasons.

Damage: Pets are renowned for causing damage to properties

. Of course it’s possible to claim this back on the deposit though it’s still frustrating for landlords. Smells: Pets are notoriously smelly – even when they’re cared for properly.

What happens if you lie about having a pet?

The Lie: Pets

If you chose to hide a pet,

you can be liable not only financially

, (requiring that you pay fees and/or forfeit your deposit) but you can even be evicted for breaking the lease.

What is a typical pet fee for an apartment?

Pet deposits and fees vary, but typically range from

$200 to $500

. Landlords may also charge a monthly rate of $25 to $100 for pet rent.

Are birds considered pets when renting?

Are birds considered pets when renting? Yes, most landlords will consider a bird a pet and charge a pet deposit if the bird is allowed. Birds can cause considerable damage if let out of the cage so the landlord will want to limit any damages and cover themselves with a pet deposit.

Why do landlords allow cats but not dogs?

Many landlords simply

don’t want the hassle and mess

that go along with tenant pets, including cats. While some pet owners are great, many are not, and landlords often don’t want to spend time dealing with pet problems. … Animal noise is rarely an issue, and cats don’t need the exercise that dogs of all sizes do.

Can tenants now have pets?

The template agreement states that a

private landlord should accept a request from a tenant to keep pets

where they are satisfied the tenant is a responsible pet owner. In addition, it states that the pet needs to be suitable in relation to the premises where it will be kept.

Is it illegal to say no pets allowed?

Yes. In Alberta, landlords can decide whether or not to allow pets in their rental properties. If a landlord does not allow pets or the building has a no pets policy,

then pets are not allowed in the property

.

How do you hide a pet during an inspection?

Disguising your pet, especially big pets like cats and dogs it’s not easy. For pets like a lizard or a mouse, you can surely place them in their pen and

keep them in the store’s dark cupboard during inspection

time. Be sure your pet is not afraid of a dark environment as they make some sounds and expose you.

How do you keep your pet secretly?


Hide the cage in a corner or closet

.

Be sure to leave your closet door slightly open so there is plenty of air getting to your pets. Some pets do not like being in the dark constantly. Leave a closet light on, or make sure that there is a small light attached to your cage.

Diane Mitchell
Author
Diane Mitchell
Diane Mitchell is an animal lover and trainer with over 15 years of experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, and horses. She has worked with leading animal welfare organizations. Diane is passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership and educating pet owners on the best practices for training and caring for their furry friends.