5 Things You Need to Know About Renting with Pets in Oklahoma City

Sharing your home with a furry friend can be quite rewarding, but there are some intricacies to renting with pets in Oklahoma City. Here's a look at what you need to know about applying for and living in an apartment with a pet.

1. Look Into Fees and Deposits

Most apartment communities either require an extra deposit upon move-in or an extra monthly fee to be paid by pet owners. This is for the protection of the landlord or management company, as it’s meant to cover the additional risk of damage to the apartment that comes with owning a dog, cat, or other animal. Make sure you know exactly what fees or deposits are required before you sign a lease.

2. Be Aware of Breed Restrictions

It's customary for communities to have dog breed restrictions. For instance, Springs Apartments communities do not allow bull terriers, pit bulls, rottweilers, or dobermans. We also require additional proof of obedience training and a personal "interview" if you own to keep a German Shepherd, Chow Chow, Malamute, Akita, or wolf hybrid.

If you own a dog of a breed that's known to be more aggressive, bringing references from past landlords and statements from trainers along when you're apartment hunting can be helpful.

3. Update Your Renter's Insurance Policy

Your renter's insurance policy may not automatically cover your pet, so it's important to call your insurance agent and let them know about your furry family member. Springs Apartments communities require all dogs to be covered by your personal liability insurance. If you have a large fish tank, we may need additional liability coverage due to the risk of water damage.

4. Get Up-To-Date At The Vet's Office

Before you apply for an apartment, make sure your pet's vaccinations are up-to-date, and bring proof of these when you apply or tour a community. Keep in mind that you'll be required to keep your pet up-to-date on vaccines for as long as you live in the apartment.

5. Abide By The Rules

Pet policies are in place for the protection of your animal, the other residents, and their own animals. Make sure you look over the community's pet policy carefully before you move in, and abide by it at all times.

Are you looking for a pet-friendly apartment community in Oklahoma City? Contact the friendly associates at Springs at May Lakes or Springs at Memorial. We'd love to learn more about your pet and answer questions about our pet policies.