How to Find Rental Housing

Don't wait until the last minute to start your search. As soon as you know a move is in your future, you should begin looking for pet friendly rental housing. The local humane society or animal control office may keep a list of Landlords or Property Management companies who allow pets. Realtors, Rental Housing Services and Newspapers are also great resources. Many apartment, condo, and townhouse communities allow pets. Check for local apartment guides at grocery stores and newspaper stands.

Gather documentation showing you are a responsible pet owner. The more tangible proof you can provide a potential landlord, the more likely you and your pet are to find a home. Acquire a letter of reference from your current landlord (previous landlords too). Make sure the letter relates directly to your competency as a responsible pet owner. Positive and personal comments about your pet are also beneficial. Make up a resume for your pet. Be creative and thorough. Include your pet's breed, color, sex (neutered or spayed), age, weight, behavior habits, favorite toys, etc. Get a letter of reference from your veterinarian. Make extra copies of your pet's veterinary records. If you've enrolled your dog in training classes, make copies of the completion certificates or registration form (if you've just enrolled).

If you've contacted a Landlord or Property Management Company who does not advertise a No Pets Policy, but they verbally tell you "No pets allowed," don't walk away. Many times it's worth while to "plead your case" in this situation. Let them know why you feel you are a responsible pet owner. (You always clean up after your pet, you don't allow your pet to run loose through the neighborhood, you don't allow your pet to disturb neighbors, etc.) Mention all of the pet reference documentation you've gathered. Suggest they personally meet your pet. Offer to pay an extra security deposit or a monthly pet fee.

Make sure the lease reflects the Landlord's approval of your pet. If the lease has a no-pets clause and the Landlord has agreed to accept your pet, cross out the clause and have the landlord initial the change. Without the Landlord's initials, it could be assumed that you made the change. Details including the amount of the pet deposit (and how much of it is refundable), monthly pet fees, and any rules pertaining to pets should all be included in the lease or in an addendum to the lease.

Be honest. Don't try to sneak your pet in. You and your pet can be subject to an eviction and other legal action.

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