How to Rent With Pets

If you're a pet owner looking for a new apartment, you've likely been frustrated with the number of landlords who won't allow your companion in the building. Before you consider smuggling in your furry friend under your landlord's nose, here are some tips for renting with pets out in the open.
First, check out the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) in your area. The organization typically has a list of landlords who do allow pets, which can save you a lot of legwork. They may even have information about the latest apartments for rent in your area with the landlord's contact phone number.
If you fall in love with an apartment building and there's a "no pets allowed" rule, you could try pleading your case to the landlord. Though you're not guaranteed to get anywhere, you could gain some ground if you market yourself as a responsible pet owner. Offer to keep your pet out of common areas, for example, and stress your plans for handling your pet when you're not at home.
You should narrow down your search to smaller apartment complexes. If the building is not managed by a management company, you're likely to encounter more lenient rules.
Also, you can offer to put down a "pet deposit" that would pay for any damages made by your pet during the terms of the lease. You can also present your landlord with letters of reference from previous landlords who can attest that you are a responsible pet owner.
Why not offer your landlord a chance to meet your pet before you move in? This is a great way to establish your responsibility in person, and can even give the landlord a chance to bond with your pet.
Check out Move.com's How-to Rental Guide for more information. by Jill Kipnis