How To Find A Pet-Friendly Rental
4 min read.
Finding a rental property that accommodates you and your pet can be challenging. With more renters owning pets than ever, the demand for pet-friendly homes is rising. However, not all landlords are open to having animals on their properties and navigating pet policies can feel overwhelming.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the key steps to help you find the perfect pet-friendly rental that both you and your furry friend will love.
The search for a pet-friendly rental often starts online, where many platforms have filters specifically for properties that allow pets. This is a great way to narrow down your options quickly. Don’t forget to explore local resources too. Pet owner groups or community forms often have recommendations for pet-friendly landlords or rental listings that may not appear on larger websites.
Once you’ve found a few potential properties, it’s crucial to clarify the pet policy as soon as possible. Some rentals may have specific restrictions on the type of pet, size, or breed of pets allowed, or they may limit the number of animals. Make sure to ask about these details upfront to avoid any confusion later. Carefully read through any lease agreement and ensure the language clearly addresses pet ownership, including deposits or additional fees required.
Consider creating a pet resume to improve your chances of securing a pet-friendly rental. This can include details like your pet’s age, breed, weight, personality, and any training or vaccinations they’ve received. References from previous landlords can also determine that your pet is well-behaved and won’t cause any damage to the property. A pet resume can set you apart from other applications and give landlords more confidence in renting to you.
When searching for a pet-friendly rental, it’s also important to consider the surrounding area and amenities. Look for places with nearby parks, walking trails, or pet stores.
In some cases, landlords may request a pet interview to meet your animal and assess its behaviour. This can feel nerve-wracking, but it’s also an opportunity to showcase how well-behaved your pet is. Ensure your pet is well-groomed and calm before the meeting, and have any necessary paperwork, like the vaccination records, to reassure the landlord further.
Finding the right pet-friendly rental can take time and patience, but finding a place where you and your pet can feel at home is worth it. With proper preparation, a pet resume, and clear communication, you’ll have a better chance of landing that ideal rental for you and your four-legged friend.
References
13 steps to finding pet-friendly housing. Petfinder. (n.d.). https://www.petfinder.com/adopt-or-get-involved/adopting-pets/about/finding-pet-friendly-housing/
Top ten tips for finding the perfect pet-friendly apartment. Canadian Apartment Properties REIT. (2023, November 3). https://www.capreit.ca/top-ten-tips-for-finding-the-perfect-pet-friendly-apartment/
Westhaven Property Management Rentals. (2024, June 20). 4 tips for finding pet-friendly rentals. Westhaven Property Management Rentals. https://www.westhavenrentals.ca/toronto-rentals-blog/4-tips-for-finding-pet-friendly-rentals
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