Renting a Home with Pets: What Applies?

Finding your dream home is a challenge in itself, but when you also have a pet, it can feel like an extra tough nut to crack. Many landlords have restrictions regarding pets, but the fact is that there are rules and rights that apply even when you want to rent a home with pets. This guide will help you understand what applies, from lease clauses to common challenges and how to best find a home where both you and your pet thrive.

In Sweden, the housing market is often competitive, especially in major cities like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö. Adding the requirement of being allowed to have pets can further limit your options. But before you give up hope, let's clarify what the law says and what the practice is.

Your Rights as a Tenant with Pets

There is no general rule stating that tenants cannot have pets. The Tenancy Act does not specifically protect pet owners, but it also does not give landlords the right to implement general bans on pets in rental agreements. This means that a lease clause completely prohibiting pets is, in principle, invalid.

What does the law say?

The Tenancy Act focuses on the tenant using the dwelling in a way that does not disturb neighbors or cause damage to the property. Small, common pets like dogs and cats are generally not considered disruptive or harmful in themselves. However, the landlord may have the right to deny pets if there are specific reasons, such as:

• Allergies: If there are documented allergies among other residents in the building that could be aggravated by pets.
• Disturbances: If there is a risk that the pet could cause significant disturbances to neighbors (e.g., a dog barking incessantly).
• Damage to the dwelling: If there is a tangible risk that the pet could cause damage to the apartment (e.g., gnawing or scratching pets).

It is important to note that the landlord must be able to prove that these reasons exist to deny you having pets. A general fear of animals or a desire to keep the property "pet-free" is not sufficient reason.

The Lease Agreement and Pets

When signing a lease, it is important to pay attention to what is stated regarding pets. An agreement may contain a clause about pets, but as mentioned above, a general prohibition is usually invalid.

Clauses regarding pets

If the landlord wants specific rules regarding pets, they might include:

• Permission requirement: That you must apply for permission from the landlord before getting a pet.
• Liability for damages: That you as a tenant are fully responsible for any damages your pet causes to the dwelling.
• Rules for dogs: Some agreements may have specific rules for dogs, such as they cannot be left alone in the apartment for extended periods or must be leashed in common areas.

It is always best to have an open dialogue with the landlord and ensure that everything concerning pets is clearly specified in the lease agreement. If you already have a pet when signing the lease, make sure it is stated. If you plan to get a pet later, inform the landlord and request written approval.

Common Challenges and Solutions

Renting a home with pets can involve certain challenges, but with the right attitude and preparation, most can be overcome.

Finding Pet-Friendly Housing

It can be harder to find available apartments where pets are welcome. Here are some tips:

• Use filters: Many housing portals have filters to search for pet-friendly accommodations. Lall.se also offers options to specify this.
• Be transparent: Be honest about your situation from the first contact with the landlord or agent. This saves time and avoids misunderstandings.
• References: If you have had pets before and managed them well, you can ask for references from previous landlords.
• Search in smaller municipalities: In smaller municipalities, the competition for rental properties may be lower, and landlords might be more flexible.

Damages and Disturbances

Even if you have the right to have pets, you as a pet owner are responsible for ensuring your pet does not cause damage or disturb neighbors. This applies regardless of whether it's a dog, cat, or another animal.

• Training and environmental adaptation: Ensure your pet is well-trained and adapted to the living environment. A dog left alone at home for long periods may need extra training to avoid separation anxiety and destructive behavior.
• Hygiene: Keep the dwelling clean and fresh to avoid odor problems.
• Consideration for neighbors: Respect the peace and quiet of your neighbors. Ensure your cat does not wander out and disturb, or that your dog does not bark uncontrollably.

Rules for Pets in Rental Properties

When it comes to rules for pets in rental properties, it's important to distinguish between what is generally allowed and what can be specifically agreed upon. As mentioned, general prohibitions are invalid, but exceptions exist for specific reasons.

Dogs and Cats

Can you have a cat in a rental property? Yes, generally. Can you have a dog in a rental property? Yes, generally. The important thing is that you as a tenant take responsibility for your animal. A clear lease agreement specifying responsibilities and any permissions is preferable to vague formulations.

Special Cases

For more unusual pets or larger animals, the landlord may have more reason to be restrictive, but even here, specific reasons are usually required to deny. It is always best to discuss the situation openly and seek a solution that works for all parties.

FAQ

Can I have a dog in my rental property?

Yes, generally you can have a dog in your rental property. A general prohibition in the lease agreement is usually invalid. However, the landlord can deny if there are concrete reasons such as risk of disturbance, damage, or allergies for other tenants.

Can a landlord deny me having a cat?

No, not generally. Just like with dogs, a general prohibition against cats is invalid. If there are specific reasons like allergies or risk of damage, the landlord may have the right to deny, but this must be provable.

What happens if my pet causes damage?

You as a tenant are fully responsible for damages caused by your pet to the dwelling. You may have to pay for repairs or compensation. Therefore, it is important to have home insurance that covers potential damages caused by pets, and to ensure your pet does not cause unnecessary damage.

How do I find a lease that allows pets?

Use filters on housing portals like Lall.se, be open with the landlord about having pets, and be prepared to show that you take responsibility for your animal. Searching in smaller municipalities can also increase your chances.

Can the landlord demand an extra deposit for pets?

No, the landlord cannot demand a higher deposit or rent solely because you have pets. However, you may be liable for damages if your pet causes them, which could affect your deposit upon moving out.