What are the rules regarding pets in rented accommodation?
What are the rules for pets in rental housing in Calgary?
Calgary, like most cities in Canada, has specific rules regarding pets in rental housing. For newly arrived Ukrainians, it is important to understand these regulations to avoid problems with landlords and to comply with local laws. In Alberta, the law allows landlords to set their own pet rules, so it is important to clearly understand your rights and responsibilities.
Alberta pet regulations
According to Alberta's Residential Tenancies Act, pets are not directly regulated by law. This means that landlords have the right to decide whether or not to allow pets in their rental properties. They can also set restrictions on the type, size, and number of pets. It is important to know that landlords are not obliged to explain their decisions regarding pets, and violation of the established rules may be grounds for eviction.
However, there are important exceptions. If you have a disability and rely on a service or support animal, you are protected by provincial laws, including the Service Dogs Act, the Blind Persons' Rights Act, and the Human Rights Act. In such cases, landlords and condominium boards must provide accommodation for qualified service or assistance dogs, provided the animal is well behaved.
Model rules for pets in rental housing
Permitted and prohibited types of animals
Many housing companies in Calgary have clear rules about what kind of pets are allowed. For example, Calgary Housing Company prohibits:
- Spiders, pigeons, poultry and livestock
- Reptiles (snakes of any kind or size, other reptiles over 6 inches long as adults)
- Vietnamese pigs, large rabbits
- Wild or exotic animals
- Aggressive or dangerous animals of any kind
At the same time, they are often allowed with certain restrictions:
- Fish (maximum aquarium size is 10 gallons)
- Small frogs, turtles, small lizards (up to 6 inches in length)
- Hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs, chinchillas, ferrets, hedgehogs, miniature rabbits (limit 2 per household)
- Birds (small - up to 2 per household, large - 1 per household)
Cats and dogs
Special rules apply to the most popular pets - cats and dogs. They are allowed in many rental properties in Calgary:
- Only 1 cat or dog is allowed per unit, with prior written permission
- Pets must be under control in all public places
- Dogs must be on a leash outside the home
- Cats are not allowed to stay outside the apartment without supervision
Tenant's responsibilities regarding pets
Insurance and deposits
One of the most important requirements for renters with pets in Calgary is to have insurance. Most landlords require proof of tenant liability insurance before they will allow you to keep a pet. This insurance covers possible damages caused by the pet.
In Alberta, landlords may require an additional pet deposit, which is regulated by law and is usually limited to a certain percentage of the monthly rent.
Care and maintenance
Tenants with pets must comply with the following obligations:
- Ensure that the apartment, balconies, lawns and common areas are free of unpleasant odors, insect infestations, garbage and animal urine/excrement
- Prevent pets from damaging doors, walls, windows and floor coverings
- Clean up after your pets and always have the means to clean up their waste
- Maintain cleanliness in the places where animals are kept, provide protection against parasites
- Control animals at any time
- Observe the rules of peace and comfort of other residents
Special cases and additional rules
Service and support animals
Special rules apply to service animals for people with disabilities. Landlords and condominium management are required to accommodate qualified service or assistance dogs. In some cases, they must also accommodate other support animals if there is reliable medical evidence to support the tenant's disability and the need for such an animal.
Prohibition on caring for other people's animals
Many landlords in Calgary prohibit so-called “pet sitting” (caring for animals belonging to other people) on their property. Guests may also be prohibited from bringing their pets onto the rental property.
Tips for a successful rental with pets
When searching for a pet-friendly accommodation in Calgary, it is recommended that you:
- Look for accommodation that explicitly states that pets are allowed
- Be prepared to provide references from previous landlords regarding your pet's behavior
- Have updated veterinary records, proof of vaccinations and spay/neuter
- Take out tenant liability insurance in advance
- Discuss all the details about your pet with the landlord before signing the contract
- Obtain written permission to keep the animal as part of the lease agreement
This approach will greatly increase your chances of successfully renting a home with your beloved pet in Calgary.
Conclusion
Understanding the rules regarding pets in rental housing is an important part of successful adaptation in Calgary. Although landlords in Alberta have a lot of freedom to set their own pet rules, knowing your rights and responsibilities will help you avoid conflicts and problems. Remember that keeping your pet responsibly, maintaining a clean and tidy environment, and respecting your neighbors are key to a comfortable stay with your pets in a rental property.
Before searching for a pet-friendly apartment, we recommend that you study the local legislation, prepare all the necessary documentation, and be prepared for additional insurance and deposit costs. Such preparation will greatly simplify the process of finding a home where you can live comfortably with your four-legged friends.