Having a pet is perfectly normal (and often necessary), but for some building owners, this is not valid because the animals could dirty the common areas and bother other tenants. Many people looking to rent with pets find it impossible to secure a home due to the limited availability of pet-friendly housing. Few rental properties allow pets, making the search challenging for pet owners. However, here is a sample letter asking landlord for a pet.
While many landlords are beginning to accept pets on their properties, many still refuse. This leads to rejection from tenants since a pet is part of the family and should be considered as such when looking for a place to live. If you find yourself in this situation, you can write a letter asking your landlord to allow you to rent their property with your pet.
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Why should pets be allowed in apartments?
The benefits to both the tenant and the landlord are obvious, and there are several reasons why pets should be accepted. For example, pets provide companionship and emotional support to their owners, especially for individuals living alone or experiencing loneliness. The presence of a pet can significantly improve mental well-being and reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
Numerous studies have also shown that owning pets can positively affect physical health. For example, walking a dog encourages regular physical activity, contributing to a healthier lifestyle and reducing the risk of obesity and related health issues. Additionally, interacting with pets can lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease, and boost overall immunity.
Another reason is that pets can serve as social catalysts, facilitating interactions between neighbors and fostering a sense of community within apartment complexes. Pet owners often bond over shared experiences, such as walking their dogs in common areas or attending pet-related events, leading to increased socialization and a greater sense of belonging.
Allowing pets in apartments encourages responsible pet ownership by promoting proper care, training, and socialization of animals. Pet owners who are allowed to live with their companions are more likely to adhere to pet-related regulations and guidelines, leading to a safer and more harmonious living environment for all residents.
Other reasons to allow pets in the appartment
Permitting pets in apartments can broaden the pool of potential tenants, thereby increasing rental demand and occupancy rates. Many individuals and families prioritize pet-friendly housing options when searching for a place to live, making pet-friendly properties more attractive and competitive in the rental market.
Finally, pet-friendly policies can financially benefit landlords, as they can charge pet deposits or monthly pet fees to offset any potential damages. In addition, pet-friendly properties may experience lower vacancy rates and higher tenant retention, resulting in increased long-term profitability.
What to do when the landlord does not accept pets?
If the landlord does not allow pets, you have several options. For example, you can try talking to the landlord to negotiate or come to an agreement about pets or find a landlord who does. Another option is to offer an additional security deposit or monthly pet fee.
You can also write a letter asking the landlord for a pet or request a letter of recommendation from a veterinarian or previous landlord stating that your pets will be well cared for and will not damage the property.
How to write a letter asking landlord for a pet
The following is an example of a letter format you can use to ask your landlord to allow you to live with your pet. You should tailor the following example to your specific needs. For example, some therapeutic and emotional support dogs must live with children or people who need them. If this is your case, you can explain your situation clearly so the owner understands it is necessary, not a whim.
However, some people do not understand that a pet is part of the family, just like a child. In this case, it is often better to look for a place that accepts pets, but if you can’t find one, you can formally request your landlord to allow you to live with your four-legged partner.
Sample letter asking landlord for a pet
Subject: Requesting Permission to Have a Pet
[Your Name] [Date]
[Current Address of Your Apartment, Unit #] [City, State, Zip Code]
[Landlord or Apartment Company’s Name) [Address as Printed on Your Lease] [City, State, Zip Code]
Dear [Owner/Landlord Name],
I hope this message finds you well. I am contacting you regarding the apartment at [Apartment Address] that I saw advertised for rent. After carefully considering its features and location, I want to express my interest in renting it.
However, before I proceed, I would like to address an important matter relevant to my situation. I am an animal lover and currently have a pet, [pet’s name], who is well-trained and well-cared for [pet’s species]. I consider my pet a member of my family, and it would be vital for me to be able to bring my pet with me to my new home.
I understand and respect any rules or policies you may have regarding pets on your property. I’m willing to comply with any additional requirements that may be necessary. I can pay an extra security deposit or sign a damage waiver. I will do whatever it takes to ensure that my pet will not cause any problems. You can be sure that I will keep the apartment in pristine condition during my stay.
I agree to care for my pet correctly and ensure that it does not cause a nuisance or inconvenience to the neighbors or the property. In addition, I can provide references that demonstrate my responsibility as a tenant. I can also prove my ability to maintain a clean and safe environment.
Please consider my request to allow pets in the apartment. I am willing to discuss any concerns you may have and am confident we can reach a mutually beneficial agreement.
Thank you in advance for your attention to this matter. I look forward to the opportunity to become your tenant. I remain available for any further inquiries or to arrange a visit to the apartment.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your email address]
Do landlords have to accept emotional support animals?
The number of individuals who rely on emotional support animals to cope with mental health issues has increased in recent years. However, whether landlords should permit emotional support animals on their property remains a complex and controversial issue.
The Fair Housing Act (FHA) is a federal law that prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities, including mental disabilities. One key provision of the FHA is that landlords are generally required to make reasonable accommodations for tenants with disabilities. This includes accommodating those who depend on emotional support animals.
This means landlords must make exceptions to their usual policies. They must accommodate tenants who require an emotional support animal, even if they have a “no pets” policy. However, this requirement has limitations. The FHA also states that accommodations are not mandatory if they would impose an undue hardship on the landlord.
What does “an undue hardship” mean?
If an accommodation would cause an undue hardship, defined as a significant difficulty or expense, it may not be required. For example, a landlord would not accept an emotional support animal if it is aggressive, damaging, or causes significant property damage. In such cases, the landlord can decline accommodation.
In such cases, the landlord may deny the request for accommodation. Accommodating the animal would impose an undue financial burden or fundamentally alter the nature of the landlord’s business.
