What Pet Owners Should Ask Before Renting an Apartment

You have tons of things to think about when looking for an apartment in Dallas. Safety, amenities, condition, location—the list goes on and on! If you own a pet, the community’s pet policy is yet another thing to consider. Here are a few questions to ask early in the apartment hunting process to make sure you find a rental that works for you and your four-legged companions.

Are pets allowed? If so, what fees are involved?

You’ll most likely have to pay an upfront pet deposit or fee, which may or may not be refundable when you move out. Pet deposits typically run between $100 and $500. You may also owe pet rent, which is usually between $10 and $30 per animal per month.

If you have a service animal, be aware that it’s against the Fair Housing Act for landlords to ban them. You also can’t be charged pet fees, though you are liable for any damages your service animal causes.

What are the restrictions?

Apartment communities are allowed to ban certain breeds, set age and weight restrictions, and limit the number of animals you can have. There may also be limitations on fish aquariums because of the potential for water damage if they leak.

What if I decide to get another pet?

Plan to notify your landlord before you adopt a new animal. Your pet rent may increase as a result, but the penalties for sneaking in a pet could include eviction or having the animal confiscated. That’s why honesty is always the best policy.

What rules are pet owners expected to follow?

Learn what rules apply to pets and pet owners in the community. Here are some examples of what may be expected:

• Keep pets crated or leashed in public spaces.
• Pick up after your pets.
• Cage your animals during maintenance repairs and property inspections.
• Keep pets out of shared common areas, such as the pool and business center.
• Address issues with nuisance barking.

Do you offer any amenities for pets?

Some pet-friendly communities have walking paths, indoor play areas, pet bathing stations, and off-leash dog parks. If the rental is in an urban area, ask where the nearest park or green space is.

What chemicals do you use on the property?

Certain pesticides, insecticides, and fertilizers are harmful to animals. Find out what products the community uses, if you can be notified the day they are applied, and whether you can request not to have chemicals sprayed near your apartment.

Uptown Apartment Locators makes it easy to find pet-friendly rentals in the Dallas, Fort Worth, and Austin areas. We consider the needs of you and your four-legged friends to ensure the apartment you choose is perfect in every way. Best of all, our apartment locating services are completely FREE. We’ll even offer a free, two-hour move or (up to) $200 as a thank you for partnering with us. Interested in learning more? Contact us at (214) 457-8252 to get started.