Landlords do not like cats because they can cause property damage and disrupt other tenants with allergies or noise sensitivity. Cats have the tendency to scratch furniture, walls and floors.
Their hair and dander can also trigger allergies and respiratory problems for some people. Owning a cat may be a source of happiness and companionship, but it may also affect a tenant’s chances of securing a rental property. While there are many pet-friendly apartments, some landlords still refuse to allow cats.
The Most Common Reasons For Landlords’ Disapproval
Owning a pet is always a matter of concern when it comes to renting properties. Among all, cats are one of the most popular pets, but they are not always accepted by landlords. Here are some reasons why landlords disapprove of them:
Allergies And Health Issues
- Many people are allergic to cats, which can lead to health problems such as sneezing, itching, or even asthma.
- Cats can carry diseases or parasites, such as toxoplasmosis, which can be dangerous for pregnant women or people with weakened immune systems.
Property Damage
- Cats are curious creatures who love to play and explore their surroundings. They can scratch walls, carpets, and furniture, leaving unsightly marks and causing damage.
- They also have a tendency to chew on things like electrical cords, which could lead to electrical fires.
Noise Complaints
- Cats are nocturnal animals and often become active at night, running around the house, making noise, and disturbing the peace.
- Additionally, cats who are not appropriately litter-trained can create unpleasant odors that can stink up the entire apartment complex.
While cats can bring joy and companionship to their owners, they may not be the best choice for renters.
As a responsible pet owner, it’s essential to consider the needs and preferences of your landlord and neighbors.
Rules And Regulations Surrounding Pet Ownership In Rentals
As a cat owner, finding a rental property that allows pets can be tricky. Most landlords typically prefer tenants who don’t have pets, and many specifically exclude cats from their rental properties.
Fair Housing Act And Pet Restrictions
The fair housing act was enacted to ensure that tenants are not discriminated against based on their race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, or disability.
As per the act, a landlord cannot refuse to rent a property to a tenant due to their disability.
In some cases, a disability may require the tenant to have a service or emotional support animal.
However, landlords can restrict the type of pets allowed in their rental properties. They are allowed to implement pet restrictions if they can provide a legitimate reason for doing so.
For example, some landlords may exclude certain breeds that are considered dangerous or aggressive.
Service Animal Vs Emotional Support Animal
A service animal is a specially trained animal that assists a person with a disability. These animals are not considered pets and are afforded special protections under the fair housing act and the Americans with disabilities act.
A landlord cannot charge any additional fees or security deposits for allowing a service animal in a rental property.
On the other hand, emotional support animals are not trained to perform specific tasks. Instead, they provide emotional support to people suffering from anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions.
These animals are not considered service animals and are not afforded the same protections.
A landlord may require a tenant to pay additional fees or security deposits for allowing an emotional support animal in a rental property.
Liability Issues For Landlords
Landlords can be held liable for any damage caused by a tenant’s pet to the rental property or a third-party. In this case, a landlord can charge the tenant for repairs or withhold the security deposit.
If a tenant’s cat harms another person or destroys their property, the landlord may also be held responsible as they are the property owner.
In such cases, the landlord may face liability claims for medical expenses or property damage caused by the cat.
Landlords may have valid reasons for not allowing cats in their rental properties due to legal issues like the fair housing act and liability issues.
However, it is important to remember that not all cats are destructive, and many can make excellent tenants.
As a responsible cat owner, it is vital to follow the rules and regulations surrounding pet ownership in rentals and ensure that your cat does not cause any harm to the property or people around them.
Ways To Address Landlord Concerns And Keep Your Feline Companion
Why Landlords Do Not Like Cats
For cat lovers, finding a perfect home where feline friends are allowed can be a challenging task. Many landlords dislike renting to tenants with cats, which can lead to frustration for cat owners searching for a suitable rental property.
Understanding a landlord’s perspective can help cat owners address their concerns and find a home that accommodates both parties.
Offering A Higher Security Deposit
One way to calm a landlord’s worries about having a cat in their property is to offer a higher security deposit. Landlords may worry that cats will result in more damages than other pets, leading to costly repairs.
Offering a higher security deposit can show the landlord that you are willing to take responsibility for any damages that your cat may cause.
This can give the landlord peace of mind knowing that they are financially protected.
Providing Professional Cleaning Services
Cats are known for their shedding and can leave their fur everywhere, which can be a cause for concern for landlords. Offering to provide professional cleaning services can help alleviate these concerns.
Hiring a professional cleaner to deep clean the property before and after the tenancy can ensure that the property is in good condition, and any signs of pet fur or dander can be removed, creating a clean and hygienic environment.
Signing A Pet Agreement Or Lease Addendum
To address any pet-related concerns from the landlord, it is essential to sign a pet agreement or lease addendum.
Many landlords have a standard agreement that tenants must adhere to, which may include pet restrictions.
To ensure your feline friend can come with you, discuss the terms and conditions which may include the number of cats allowed and the areas of the property which are permitted for cats.
Adding a pet agreement or lease addendum can provide additional protection for both the tenant and the landlord.
Exploring Alternative Housing Options
If a landlord is still not willing to accommodate a cat, it may be worth exploring alternative housing options.
Some landlords or property agents are more sympathetic to pet owners and are more likely to accommodate pets. Alternatively, pet-friendly isn’t always limited to traditional rental properties.
Many people offer rooms or properties on a more casual basis, such as through house sitting organizations. Keep looking until you find the perfect home that accommodates you and your beloved feline companion.
Finding a rental property that accepts cats can be tricky, but addressing landlord concerns can help ease the negotiation process.
Offering a higher security deposit, providing professional cleaning services, and signing a pet agreement or lease addendum, are some ways tenants can show their commitment to responsible pet ownership.
Frequently Asked Questions For Why Landlords Do Not Like Cats
Why Do Landlords Not Allow Cats In Rental Properties?
Landlords are often concerned about the potential damage and odors caused by cats, as well as the risk of allergic reactions for future tenants.
Can A Landlord Legally Prohibit Tenants From Having Cats?
Yes, landlords can legally prohibit tenants from having cats in their rental properties. However, some states have laws that protect tenants’ rights to have assistance animals.
How Can Tenants Convince Their Landlords To Allow Cats?
Tenants may be able to convince their landlords to allow cats by suggesting pet deposits or rent increases, providing references from previous landlords, or offering to take responsibility for any damages.
Do All Landlords Have A Blanket Policy Against Cats?
No, not all landlords have a blanket policy against cats. Some may allow cats on a case-by-case basis, while others may have restrictions on certain breeds or sizes of cats.
Conclusion
As you unravel the mystery, you’ll find landlords’ reluctance towards cats is fueled by concerns of property damage, allergies, and noise disturbances.
But remember, with responsible pet ownership, you can make a convincing case to your landlord and help change this perspective.