While there are some risks associated with allowing pets on a property, by putting in place good pet policies, these risks can be reduced. By doing this, the landlord and tenant can have a more positive relationship and enjoy the benefits of having a pet on the property.
Can landlords change pet policies? Yes, legally landlords can change pet policies. However, some requirements must be met or included in the tenant and landlord lease agreement to enable him to do so, such as a Lease addendum or adding a clause in the pet rules, anticipating the possibility of amendment by the landlord. Some situations supersede the landlord’s pet policy, all these and more will be explored below. ..
Pet Policies
Some pet policies require all tenants to sign a pet agreement, which includes pet owners and non-pet owners. This ensures that even if a tenant acquires a pet much later, he is still aware of and bound by the requirements of the policy. Pet policies can differ from building to building, but there are some common guidelines that tenants should be aware of.
Guidelines for Creating Pet Policies
Specify the types of pets allowed.
Some landlords can allow certain pets and not others, size or age of the pet, breed of the animal, number of pets allowed, and weight limits if any should be specified in the agreement.
It is important to note that only tenants’ pets are allowed on the premises as pets may not be allowed on the property. Visitors are not allowed to bring their pets along with them.
Tenants should have full charge and responsibility for their pets.
Tenants should keep their pets under control at all times, whether in cages or kennels. Pets should be cleaned up thoroughly after themselves to avoid causing discomfort to others. ..
When can a Landlord Change Pet Policy?
In some cases, landlords may be allowed to change the pet policy as a result of a lease agreement. If the tenant and landlord have signed a lease, they are both legally bound to follow the policy. If the landlord decides to change the policy, they must include a lease addendum in their agreement.
Lease Addendum
The lease addendum is another written agreement that allows the amendment of parts of the lease agreement. The lease addendum can be proposed by either the tenants or the landlord anytime after signing the lease. A lease addendum is effective until agreed to and signed by both parties. Either of the parties involved can refuse an addendum that is not in their best interest. When an old lease expires, the landlord can add new clauses to the new lease. The landlord could add a no-pet clause, and prevent new tenants from moving in with their pets, whereas old tenants have their pets in their rentals. ..
Emotional support animals
People with disabilities may have animals that assist them; called emotional support animals. The Fair Housing Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protect disabled persons from all forms of discrimination; they are not subject to or restricted by a “no pet policy” even in cases of new lease agreements. ..
Landlords have the right to make and change their pet policies, what sort of pets to allow, etc. Consulting the local laws would help landlords guide their tenants on proper pet control measures outside of the property. ..
Should landlords inform tenants of changes to new lease agreements? ..
If you have a lease agreement that expires on a specific date, it is important to check in with the landlord to see if there are any changes in the lease agreement that you may not be aware of.
Yes, people with disabilities can be denied entry into the United States based on their service animal’s breed.
In order to ensure that service animals are not denied entry as a result of prejudice or misconceptions, landlords should be made aware of the specific breed of service animal and its requirements. If a pet policy does not allow the entry of a certain breed of service animal, this will not be the case for those with disabilities. In cases where an animal is dangerous to others, it will be necessary for the disabled individual to receive all necessary assistance in order to enter the property.
