Everything you need to know about renting with a pet

Finding a pet-friendly home to rent can be challenging, as listings in Poland often include three caveats: “no smokers, no children, and no pets.” The fact is that pet ownership is on the rise, including in Poland, as a result of demographic changes, rising income levels and the Covid-19 pandemic.

Can landlords refuse pets in a rented property?

Homes that allow renters to own a pet can be very hard to come by, as landlords fear damage and dirt associated with furry friends. In Poland, landlords are within their rights to refuse pets and the tenancy agreement might state that pets aren’t allowed. When searching for a property, it’s worth using real estate portals that allow you to filter for homes that allow pets.

Appropriate clauses in the tenancy agreement

You might be tempted not to disclose owning a pet to a potential landlord, but we would strongly encourage you to be transparent and look for clauses regarding pets in the tenancy agreement. These should be clear and specify, among other things, the number and type of pets allowed and any restrictions, e.g. related to noise. It’s also a good idea to check if there are any rules in the case of a block of flats for example.

Protect against potential damage with tenant liability insurance

The risk of damage associated with pets is why landlords usually offer slightly modified terms, such as a larger deposit, the purchase of adequate insurance - such as tenant liability insurance - to cover potential damage, and paying for a deep clean (including upholstery) at the end of the tenancy.

When purchasing insurance, make sure that the policy covers damages caused by the tenant’s pet (and not, for example, a guest’s pet).

Click here to learn more about tenant insurance with simpl.rent.

Additional steps you can take when renting with a pet

You might increase your chances of securing a property by providing references from previous landlords, who can vouch for you and your pet. You could also offer to make modifications to the home to protect it from possible damages caused by your pet, such as installing nets in the windows or on the balcony.

Finally, smell and allergies are a legitimate concern, so it’s worth looking for an unfurnished home.