Learn from our property management experts!
If you and your furry friend are on the prowl for a new home, there are a few things you will want to keep in mind. Pet policies may seem more like suggestions than true rules, but they are generally created to keep all residents, and their pets, happy and safe in their community. Each complex will have its own unique policies, but here are a few key points to keep in mind when selecting your new home.
While your pet might be extremely well-behaved in your current home, this could change even temporarily when you relocate. Animals become accustomed to their surroundings, and they can become stressed when things change. They may start to act out by chewing furniture, scratching at the doors, or having accidents on the carpet. While these are out of character for your pet and may not last forever, you will want to ensure you have paid the pet fees and damage deposits required by your leasing office. It is never acceptable to own a pet without letting your leasing office know, and this could end up costing you extremely large fees should damages occur without you being covered under pet fees and damage deposits.
Most states require all pets to be on a leash when outdoors in common areas like sidewalks and parks. This is for your own pet’s safety, as it ensures that potentially aggressive animals will also be on leashes and kept at length from your own. It also prevents owners from allowing their animals to wander the community, even if it is gated. This can be especially problematic when animals are not fixed. Be sure your residence or neighborhood community also has these leash requirements in place – and that they are enforced.
One amenity that may be important for you is an on-site pet park. If you have a large or high-energy dog, this can be a great place for your pet to run and play with friends. However, just as with the leash requirements, you may be subject to certain rules when using the pet park as well. These can include your pet being up-to-date on all current shots and vaccinations, being spayed or neutered, and having proper hygiene.
One thing you may not always consider is how your pet can be let out for a walk if you are not home. In a rental, you are generally not allowed to make copies of your keys and provide these to friends or hired pet care professionals. If you know you will frequently need to let others into your home, consider a residence that offers remote or keyless entry through a keypad or smartphone app. By using technology like this, you can create one-time or unique key codes that will allow entry while also keeping the property secure for future residents.