Owning a pet is an experience no one should be denied. Caring for a cat, dog, bird, or any other animal is a nurturing and generous act that gives back to us in countless ways. These innocent creatures rely on us for everything, and in return they give us their unconditional love. After a long day at work, there is often nothing better than returning home to a pet that is thrilled to see you—offering no judgment on that latest project at the office, or what you have decided to cook for dinner. Sadly though, pets can often be a major issue for others if you are renting. If your landlord is not pet-friendly—or not multi-pet friendly—in a scenario where you have decided to bring animals into the home, trouble can arise.
Conflicts Over Pets in Rentals Are All Too Common
Often, there may be a misunderstanding. In a more laid-back lease agreement, pets may not even have been discussed. Perhaps you decided to get a dog or a cat later, and after some time past the landlord realized this and was unhappy. It could be that the owner of the home originally allowed pets but then changed their mind. Or, you may have a particularly vocal animal that upset the neighbors and resulted in a complaint. Cats may get in the trash, parrots may squawk too loudly for the quiet couple next door, and you may find yourself in an unintended conflict. The problem here is that you may experience legal ramifications, as well as the potential for a rapid eviction if you were not up front to begin with—or later when you decided to take on a pet without telling the landlord. Sometimes it may not even be a direct issue with your landlord, but rather one with the insurance company if you have a breed of dog they do not allow.
Do Not Ignore That Legal Notice
You may be surprised at how swiftly action can be taken too, depending on the level of concern and efficiency of your landlord or property management agency. Although many tenants may prefer a phone call or a more casual heads-up regarding any pet or living situation, you may simply be served with a notice that gives you a very short time either to get rid of the pet or move. If your lease was very cut and dry and contained a no-pet clause, you may have little recourse; however, if you do not have a lease or if you were under the impression that pets were allowed, you may want to consult with an attorney experienced in landlord-tenant issues, like Shane Coons. Another alternative is try and speak with your landlord or property management company yourself, but if they have gone to the trouble of serving you with a legal notice, it may be hard to change their minds without legal help of your own.
Contact Us for Help Now
Call Shane Coons now at 949-333-0900 or email us at Shane.Coons@seclawoffices.com if you need more information regarding your rights as a tenant with a pet. We can review your case, answer your questions, and help you decide how to move forward. We are here to help!