How Do I Add a Pet to My Lease?
If you are thinking about adding a pet to your lease, it is a good idea to read your lease carefully. Not only will you find out if you are permitted, but you will also get a better understanding of how you will be able to care for your new family member. You will be able to see how much your landlord will charge you, if any, and you will learn what you can do to make your life easier.
In the United States, more than two-thirds of renters have at least one pet. Cats are the most common pets, followed by dogs. However, it can be difficult to bring a large dog into your apartment. Usually, you’ll have to sublet your rental. The good news is that you may be able to avoid all this hassle by working out a pet arrangement with your landlord.
A pet addendum is an official document, often referred to as a pet policy, that details the rules and regulations for pet ownership in your building. The document should contain information ranging from how many pets are allowed, to what types of animals are prohibited. It should also mention the legal requirements for pet ownership. Depending on your state, you might need to carry specific insurance or licensing, or get a rabies vaccine.
A pet addendum is a short document that includes all the pertinent information about the pet and its owner. Typically, it will contain information about the pet’s weight, if any, as well as its size and breed. For some pets, the addendum might even specify the number of days that you are able to leave your pet alone.
In addition to the obvious details, a pet addendum should also contain the pet’s name, the number of months that it is allowed to stay in your unit, the amount of monthly pet fee that you will be required to pay, and the pet’s weight. Many landlords will also ask for copies of your pet’s medical records. Your landlord may have an expectation that you will be responsible for veterinary bills, and he or she may also request proof of a rabies vaccination.
A pet lease addendum should contain all the pertinent details and should be in a form that is easily retrievable if necessary. Pets can damage your property, and a clear pet policy will help reduce the chances of trouble down the road. Also, a good pet addendum will include a fines section, so you know what to expect.
A pet addendum is arguably the best way to add a pet to your lease. Having a clear pet policy can help you get by in a rental, and it can also keep you from spending thousands of dollars on an eviction. This is especially important if you have a history of being a bad tenant.
You might be tempted to sneak a pet into your rental without your landlord’s permission, but you could end up with a big problem. Before you do anything drastic, seek help from a lawyer or housing advocate.
