As a dog owner, you are undoubtedly aware of the challenge of finding a suitable apartment that allows pets. It’s not uncommon for pet owners to have their hearts set on a specific apartment, only to learn that the apartment building has a no pets policy.
One of the key ways to avoid this type of situation is to do a considerable amount of research beforehand. Rather than think of your pet as yet another addition to your apartment, focus your efforts with your fur-friend in the foreground of your search. This post shares a few top tips to help you make hunting for a pet-friendly apartment much simpler.
1. Know What a Pet Deposit Is
If you’re renting with a pet for the first time, knowing what a pet deposit is crucial. Essentially, this deposit is a refundable payment you pay to your landlord to cover any potential pet-related damages. For the most part, this deposits any repairs that need to be done once you and your pet move out. Review each apartment’s specific criteria for this policy. This will ensure a stress-free process when your deposit needs to be reimbursed.
Some places also allow an emotional support animal. An emotional support animal or ESA is a domesticated animal that provides therapeutic benefits to people with mental or psychiatric disabilities. Since these animals are seen as assistance animals and not pets, many rentals will not charge you for a pet deposit or monthly rent with the proper documentation. Be sure to ask the rental property or landlord to get clarification.
2. Refine Your Search to Target Pet-Friendly Options
The simplest way to find the perfect apartment is to limit your search criteria to pet-friendly options only. When searching online, be sure to use the provided filters to only list the pet-friendly options. If you’re making telephonic or in-person inquiries, be sure to specify “pet-friendly” in the opening sentence of your request. Doing this will prevent wasting your time and the landlord’s.
3. Keep a Copy of Pet Documentations on Hand
It’s also essential to have your dog’s updated documentation on hand. Saving this to your mobile device or in any other digital format will show a potential landlord that your pet’s welfare is your main priority, indicating that you’re a responsible pet owner.
These documents typically include proof of neutering or spaying, updated vaccinations, as well as the latest medical report from your dog’s veterinarian. If you do find a place that allows an ESA, be sure to have the proper documentation and get official approval from a therapist, physician or psychiatrist.
4. Ensure that Your Dog Has the Right Training
If you have a new dog it’s crucial to train them so they can easily follow commands. Obedience training should include not scratching or biting apartment fixtures such as doors, window frames, flooring and other wooden items. This is essential if you’re considering an apartment with a lot of wood in the design or if you have a cat. New pet owners can review tips for pet care guidelines online.
5. Consider Your Type of Pet
In your search for the ideal apartment, it’s imperative to keep in mind that not all pets belong in any apartment that fits the pet-friendly criteria. Some animals, such as smaller dogs, may not be safe in an apartment with balconies or that’s situated higher than ground level. Bigger dogs may also benefit from apartments that have a small courtyard or garden. Birds in permanent cages, on the other hand, may enjoy some time on a balcony.
6. Look for Easy to Clean Apartments
To avoid having to deal with potential cleaning issues and expensive flooring damages, look for apartments that aren’t fully carpeted. This will not only reduce the amount of cleaning you need to do if your pet has an accident but also eliminate the likelihood of losing your key deposit as a result of stained carpets.
7. Let Your Pet Meet Your Landlord
If you’re planning on signing a private lease, it’s often a good idea to let your landlord meet the pet in question. Showing your potential landlord that your dog is obedient and friendly will reassure them that they won’t be a threat to anyone else in the building. A well-behaved, friendly pet is more likely to give the impression that they aren’t going to damage the apartment.
8. Assess the Pet Policy
Once you have found a potential apartment, it’s recommended that you check the specific pet policy. This will not only outline the specific guidelines that your pet needs to adhere to but will highlight aspects such as noise levels, types of breeds allowed and areas in the apartment building where the pet is allowed. Being aware of these rules will ensure a comfortable stay for you and your pet. Some places also allow an emotional support animal
Final Thoughts
Apartment hunting can be considerably simpler if you use our hassle-free guidelines. Finding the right home for you and your beloved pet can be a hassle-free process if you know what to look for from the beginning, as this will eliminate a lot of running around, and you’re less likely to waste your time on viewing an apartment that isn’t suitable.
Refine your focus on finding a home that ticks all your requirement boxes. Since more homes and apartments are changing their pet policies, it’s become significantly easier to find a home you and your pets will enjoy and thrive in.