Pet-friendly moving tips
Whether you have a dog, cat, bird, or reptile, here are a few tips to make your move as smooth as possible for both you and your pet:
- Find a pet-friendly apartment complex or rental unit well in advance of your move-in date.
- Make sure your pet is up-to-date on all vaccinations and has a clean bill of health from the vet.
- Consider investing in renter insurance that covers liability in case your pet damages property or injures someone.
- When packing up your belongings, set aside items that your pet will need—food, bowls, bedding, toys, etc.—so you can easily access them when you move into your new place.
Finding Pet-Friendly Apartments What to Look for in Your Rental
When you’re looking for an apartment, location is important. But when you’re bringing your pet along, it can become even more critical. Convenient location is especially important if you have multiple pets or ones that are unable to walk long distances. If space is an issue, look for apartments where small dogs and cats can coexist in a shared space. Easy-to-clean floors and surfaces are also key if your pets tend to shed. First off, you’ll want to make sure the flooring material in your rental has low-pile carpeting or hardwood. Second, pay attention to the number of rugs scattered around the room—the fewer there are, the easier they will be to clean. Finally, take note of any throw pillows on furniture (think about how easily those things get ruined) and think about what floor coverings might be best for your pets before deciding on one particular place.
Pet Restrictions
Many apartments have breed or size restrictions for dogs, so it’s important to do your research ahead of time. Be prepared to pay a pet deposit and/or monthly pet rent. These fees can range from $200-$500 for the deposit and $10-$50 per month for rent, depending on the property. In addition, you may be required to purchase renters insurance that covers your pet in case of damage or injury.
Before signing a lease, be sure to read the fine print and ask questions about the pet policy. By doing your homework ahead of time, you can avoid any surprises down the road.
Pet Rent & Deposit Fees
Pets are wonderful companions, but they can also be a big responsibility—especially when it comes to finding a pet-friendly apartment. In addition to the regular rent and deposit fees, many landlords charge pet rent and require a pet deposit. Pet rent is a monthly fee that helps cover the cost of wear and tear on the property. The pet deposit is a one-time fee that reimburses the landlord for any damage your pet may cause.
Renters Insurance with Pets
Renting with pets comes with a lot of additional responsibility—not just for yourself, but for your pet and your landlord. Make sure you're prepared by getting renters insurance that covers your pet. Many policies have breed restrictions, so be sure to read the fine print. You may also be required to pay a higher premium or add an additional deposit. There are many different types of coverage available, so make sure you know what's best for your situation. If possible, try to get renter's insurance quotes from several providers before settling on one.
Being a Good Tenant
As a pet owner, it’s important to be a good tenant and take responsibility for your animal. This means cleaning up after them, not letting them bark excessively or roam the halls, and keeping them from damaging property. Additionally, you should make sure your pet is up-to-date on vaccinations and register them with the building (if required). By being a considerate pet owner, you can help make the experience of renting with pets positive for everyone involved.
Keep your apartment Clean & Tidy with Pets
Pets can be great roommates—they’re always happy to see you, they don’t mind if you want to stay in your PJs all day, and they make great cuddle buddies. But as any pet owner knows, they can also be a lot of work. The key to successfully living with pets is to keep your apartment clean and tidy. Clean the hard floors with a carpet cleaner or mop at least once a week. Sweep or vacuum every other day to pick up hair, food crumbs, and anything else that falls on the floor while they’re shedding their winter coat. Use an odor neutralizer if necessary to eliminate any lingering smells (this will help the humans in the house too!). And never let food or water sit out for more than two hours; this includes kibble too!
And remember that litter boxes need regular cleaning too!