Tips for Finding Pet-Friendly NYC Apartments

Owning pets in New York City can be difficult, as there is a lack of both indoor and outdoor space for your pet. It can also often add further complications to the apartment hunting process as it'sn't uncommon for landlords and management companies to have rules against owning pets.

However, thankfully, this has changed drastically during the pandemic. Pet adoption rates soared during the pandemic, and in order to accommodate new pet owners, many landlords made the decision to adjust their rules and allow pets in their rental units.

However, there are still often guidelines and restrictions regarding pets, such as which breeds are allowed or a weight limit. Owning a pet in New York City is a decision that should be made thoughtfully, and in order to help you out, here is some advice on living with pets and finding pet-friendly apartments in NYC.

Be Aware Of Apartment Pet Rules in NYC

While many landlords have become more lenient, you're still likely to run into many landlords that don't accept pets. Management companies and co-op boards are also more likely to allow pets such as cats rather than dogs.

Additionally, it's likely that buildings that allow pets will have breed or weight restrictions. This is because while landlords want to accommodate their tenants, they also don't want to be liable if someone gets injured due to your pet. They also want to avoid any excessive wear and tear that can come from a larger pet.

Finally, if your landlord isn't sure whether they're willing to allow you to have your pet in their rental unit, it can help to do the following:

Document Your Pet’s Health And Training Record

If you're planning to rent an apartment with your pet, be sure to have your paperwork in order and be transparent on your pet’s breed and size. Essentially, you want to put together a resume for your pet.

This should consist of a reference letter (ideally from a previous landlord stating they never had any troubles with your pet), the pet’s health history, training certificates, and a photo of your pet.

While it may seem excessive to do all this, it can go a long way by showing the landlord that they're a healthy and well-behaved animal and you're a responsible pet owner.

Introduce Your Landlord To Your Pet

If possible, and if your pet interacts well with strangers, it can be beneficial to have your landlord meet your pet. Showing your landlord that your pet is properly trained and well behaved will prove to them that your pet should be allowed to live in their rental unit.

it's one thing to see these things on paper, such as showing your landlord your pet’s training certificates, but it's another to prove to them that their training goes beyond certificates, and can be verified.

Questions To Ask Before Getting A Pet in New York City

When choosing a pet, it's important to keep in mind how they’ll fit into your lifestyle. Here are some key questions to ask before getting a pet:

What Size Is Too Big?

When looking for a pet, you want to take into consideration how big of a pet you can handle. You want to ensure that you have the space to comfortably house the pet, and you also want to ensure that you will be able to find housing in NYC that allows your pet’s size.

Do You Have The Time To Properly Care For Your Pet?

If you're looking to get a pet, such as a dog, that’s more time consuming to care for, you want to be sure that you have the ability to do so. For example, you want to ensure that you have the time to take your dog outside to run, play, and relieve themselves.

You’ll also want to ensure you have the time for additional upkeep for your pet such as grooming, training and bathing. If you have a sporadic work schedule and a hectic social life, you may want to look into getting a lower maintenance pet.

Is Your NYC Apartment Building Pet Friendly?

If you're planning on permanently staying in your current apartment, you’ll want to ensure that the pet you choose will allow you to remain compliant with your building’s pet policies.

On the other hand, if you're someone who moves often and will be taking your pet with you, it may help to find a pet that fits in with the common rules and restrictions on pets in New York City. Of course, not every landlord will have the same rules, but having a cat will make your apartment hunt much easier than having a Great Dane.

Can You Afford Having A Pet?

Having a pet comes with additional costs. Not only will you have to pay to buy the pet, but you will also have to pay for its medical bills, food, and additional costs related to things such as toys, treats, clothing, grooming, and more.

Additionally, many apartments require a fee for pets, which you’ll need to account for as well. In short, owning a pet can prove to be very expensive, especially in New York City, so be sure that you're prepared for the costs.

Outerbridge Law Protects Your Family—Including Your Pets

Once you're ready to bring a pet home, you’ll want to help your pet adjust to their new home. This means that you’ll want to take the time to make them feel comfortable and slowly introduce them to their new home.

Not only do you want to make your pet comfortable, but you also want to ensure that you're being a good neighbor and tenant by complying with your building’s pet regulations and rules. However, if you’ve followed all the best practices, had your pet approved, and take good care of it, there’s still a chance your landlord will try to take advantage of you by charging pet fees higher than what you had agreed to, or even trying to illegally evict you.

If your rights as a renter are being violated because of your pet, you don’t have to accept it or give up your four-legged friend. Instead, contact Outerbridge Law today to learn if you have a case.