Sample Contract: Pet Agreement Contract

Once you've found the perfect apartment community that warmly welcomes you and your pets, you'll likely be asked to sign a pet agreement.

What to expect from a pet agreement

While pet agreement contracts can vary by lease, they generally include the same information and let you know the restrictions and requirements for housing a pet. Contracts will vary, so there may be additional dos and don'ts in each pet agreement contract.

Contracts will often outline what the renter is expected to do when it comes to taking care of their pets. This includes things like house training your pet and keeping your pet on a leash. In most cases, the tenant will also be required to pay an additional pet deposit and even a monthly fee. The pet agreement will outline the monetary expectations agreed upon.

Pet agreement contracts will also talk about what the property owner is expected to do to maintain a safe space for pets and tenants. Management may have certain requirements in place when it comes to pet vaccinations, and you may be required to share medical charts and history with your property manager.

Depending on the apartment community, different types of animals may or may not be allowed. The agreement will also outline which areas of the property pets can and cannot visit.

Sample pet agreement template

You can download the following document and use this template as a guide. It will help you come prepared with any questions or negotiations you'd like to make. You'll review the contract with your property manager, make sure you're both on the same page and then sign the legal pet agreement.

Download a word document of sample contract

Download a PDF of sample contract

This pet agreement contract is between [INSERT APARTMENT COMPLEX/PROPERTY NAME HERE] and [TENANT NAME] and concerns the pet(s) that will reside in the rental property. This agreement is legally binding and is an addendum to the rental lease between both parties.

Pet description and details:

Tenant must notify the property manager and receive written verification that the pet(s) is permitted to live at [INSERT APARTMENT NUMBER HERE]. Tenant must complete the following form for all pets residing on the premises:

Current on vaccinations: Yes/No

Pet regulations and restrictions:

Pet must be spayed or neutered at the recommended age as per a veterinarian.
Pet must wear proper identification at all times.
Pet must be up-to-date on all required vaccinations as per veterinarian and state code.
Tenant will share pet's medical history with tenant upon request.
Pet must be on a leash at all times in the areas designated by management.
Pets must be house trained and tenant will clean up after the pet at all times. Tenant will deodorize, de-flea and update any part of the property if damaged by the pet.

Tenant obligations and liabilities:

Tenant agrees to disclose any and all pets residing in the apartment. If tenant wishes to have an additional pet, they must get written approval from management and may be required to pay additional fees and costs.
Tenant is responsible to pay for and repair any damage (outside of normal wear and tear) caused by the pet in both the apartment and the apartment complex.
Tenant will cover the cost of injuries caused by the pet while on the apartment property.
Tenant is responsible for ensuring the pet is not a public nuisance or disturbance.
Tenant agrees to pay the additional fees and deposits required in addition to the fees of the rental agreement.

Management rights and obligations:

Management will clearly designate which areas of the property are allowed and prohibited for pets.
Management will clearly designate which areas of the property require the pet to be leashed.
Management reserves the right to remove the pet for the following reasons (TBD by property manager).
Management will determine which kind of animals, breeds and sizes are allowed or prohibited from residing on the property.
Management will determine the number of pets allowed in each apartment.
Management reserves the right to remove any aggressive or dangerous animals.

By signing below, you agree to all of the stipulations outlined by the property manager and apartment complex. Any violation of this agreement could result in eviction, damages and costs or attorney fee costs.

3 ways to be a great apartment neighbor with a pet

Now that you've sorted out the legal details and signed your pet agreement contract, you're good to go, right?

While you've technically done your part, you may want to consider a few extra steps to make sure you're a responsible pet owner and a great new neighbor.

1. Introduce yourself and your pet to your neighbors

Once you've settled into your new space, take the time to introduce yourself and your pet to all of your neighbors. Not only is it a friendly gesture, but you may discover that your neighbors have pets, as well.

Now, you've made a new friend and found a potential pet-sitter. If your neighbors don't have pets or don't like animals, you can keep this information in mind and avoid awkward run-ins.

2. Create an open line of communication

Your neighbors don't need to be your best friends, but it's smart to know them well enough so you can have open and honest lines of communication.

For example, if your dog is barking like mad and it's driving your neighbor crazy, they should feel safe to give you that feedback and know you'll make the necessary changes. Or, if your dog needs to be let out during the day, knowing you can trust your neighbor to help you out is an added bonus.

3. Check in on your pet regularly

If you're away from your apartment or at work during the day, you may consider installing a pet camera to check-in on your pet when you're not home. Pet cameras allow you to watch and listen to your pet and make sure they're safe and staying out of trouble.

If your pet happens to be making excessive noise or causing damage, you'll know and can immediately make plans to remedy the situation.