How to negotiate with the landlord about keeping a pet?

For Ukrainian newcomers to Calgary who have pets or plan to get them, navigating the rental process can seem daunting. However, by understanding local laws, rights and responsibilities, and having the right negotiation strategies, you can successfully find a suitable home for yourself and your four-legged friends.

Understanding the legal framework in Alberta

In Alberta, the laws regarding pets in rental housing differ significantly from many other jurisdictions. According to Alberta's Residential Tenancies Act, pet ownership is not directly regulated by provincial law, which means landlords have complete freedom to make their own decisions.

Key points:

  • Landlords have absolute discretion to decide whether to allow pets on their property.

  • They may impose restrictions on the type, size, breed, and number of animals.

  • Landlords are not required to explain their decisions regarding pet restrictions.

  • Violations of the rules regarding pets may be grounds for eviction.

Exceptions: Service and assistance animals

An important exception is service animals and service animals. Under Alberta law, including:

  • Service Dogs Act,
  • Blind Persons' Rights Act,
  • Alberta Human Rights Act,

landlords are required to provide housing for individuals with qualified service or guide animals, provided the animal is well-behaved.

Emotional support animals have limited legal recognition in Alberta. Unlike service animals, they are not protected by provincial laws, although there may be exceptions under human rights legislation.

Municipal requirements in Calgary

The city of Calgary has its own requirements for keeping pets, which are mandatory for all residents.

Licensing

  • All cats and dogs over three months old must have a Calgary city license.

  • The cost of a license varies from $21 to $310 depending on the type of animal and sterilization status.

  • Licenses can be obtained online, in person, or by phone.

Basic responsibilities of owners

  • Dogs must be on a leash in public places, except in designated areas.

  • It is prohibited to keep more than six dogs and six cats in a single dwelling.

  • Owners must clean up after their animals.

  • Animals must not disturb the peace of neighbors.

Financial aspects of pet ownership

Keeping pets in rented accommodation may include:

  • license fees,

  • tenant liability insurance,

  • non-refundable pet fees,

  • monthly pet rent,

  • deposits (if required by the lease),

  • additional costs for care, vaccinations, and veterinary services.

It is important to consider these expenses when planning your budget, especially when looking for pet-friendly housing in Calgary.

Complete guide for Ukrainians in Calgary: renting a home with pets

For Ukrainian newcomers to Calgary who have pets or are planning to get them, navigating the rental process can seem daunting. However, by understanding local laws, rights and responsibilities, and having the right negotiation strategies, you can successfully find a suitable home for yourself and your four-legged friends.

Types of payments

In Alberta, landlords may charge different types of pet fees:

  • Non-refundable pet fees These are one-time payments that are non-refundable at the end of the lease.

Standard rates range from $100 to $500.

  • Monthly pet fees Many landlords charge an additional monthly fee of $25 to $50 per pet.

  • Deposit disclaimer Under Alberta law, refundable deposits for animals in addition to the usual security deposit are prohibited. However, non-refundable fees are permitted.

Insurance

Most landlords require proof of liability insurance that covers any damage caused by animals. This insurance usually covers:

  • Damage to the landlord's property
  • Injuries caused by animals to third parties
  • Liability for the animal's behavior outside the home

Strategies for successful negotiations

Preparing for negotiations

Create a “resume” for your pet:

  • Vaccination and licensing records
  • Certificates of sterilization
  • Proof of training or obedience school
  • Recommendations from previous landlords or veterinarians

Demonstrate responsibility:

  • Obtain renter's insurance with pet coverage
  • Prepare photos and a description of the pet's behavior
  • Gather documents about the medical history and health status

Negotiation tactics

  • Be honest from the start Never hide the fact that you have a pet.

Transparency builds trust and helps avoid problems in the future.

  • Offer to meet the pet Many landlords agree to meet pets before signing a contract, which helps demonstrate their good behavior.

  • Offer additional guarantees:

  • Higher deposit or non-refundable fees

  • Monthly fee for the pet

  • Professional cleaning at the end of the lease

  • Regular inspections of the property

Documenting agreements

All agreements regarding pets must be set out in writing in the lease or in an additional agreement.

A typical “pet clause” might look like this:

“The Landlord grants the Tenant permission to keep an animal [type and breed] named [animal's name] at the Property during the term of the lease. The Tenant agrees not to keep any additional animals without the prior written consent of the Landlord.”

Special programs and resources in Calgary

Support programs for renters with pets

  • Calgary Humane Society Pets and Renters Program Provides free behavior support for animals to help them adjust to life in a rental home.

  • Renter's Choice Pet Program Offers landlords up to $3,000 in insurance coverage for damage caused by pets, making them more likely to accept tenants with pets.

Emergencies and Support

  • Emergency Boarding Program The Calgary Humane Society provides temporary care for animals in emergency situations such as loss of housing, hospitalization, or natural disasters.

  • Pet Safekeeping Program A confidential temporary animal care program for victims of domestic violence.

  • Pet-Friendly Emergency Shelters Several women's shelters in Calgary now have rooms where pets can be kept.

Finding suitable housing

Search strategies

  • Focus on listings that specifically mention “pet-friendly”

  • Use specialized platforms to find pet-friendly housing

  • Consider housing companies that have established policies regarding pets

  • Don't limit yourself to downtown Calgary — consider suburbs and neighboring cities

Preparing to apply

  • Prepare all necessary documents in advance
  • Be prepared to make a quick decision in a competitive market
  • Consider working with real estate agents who specialize in pet-friendly rentals

Rights and responsibilities after signing the lease

Tenant responsibilities

  • Comply with all municipal laws regarding animals
  • Maintain cleanliness and order in the dwelling
  • Prevent damage to property by animals
  • Ensure that animals do not disturb neighbors
  • Provide access for property inspections if necessary

Protection against discrimination

Landlords cannot discriminate on the basis of ownership of service animals or service animals. If you experience unlawful discrimination, contact the Alberta Human Rights Commission.

Practical tips for Ukrainian newcomers

Cultural and language aspects

  • Learn specific English terminology related to renting and pets

  • Understand Canadian norms regarding animal behavior in urban environments

  • Learn about local veterinary services and requirements

Financial planning

  • Consider all additional costs: licenses, insurance, veterinary services, pet fees
  • Plan a budget for unforeseen expenses related to pets
  • Consider support programs for people with low income

Community integration

  • Use dog parks and parks to get to know your neighbors
  • Join local pet owner groups
  • Attend events organized by the Calgary Humane Society and other organizations

Conclusion

Reaching an agreement with your landlord about keeping a pet in Calgary requires careful preparation, understanding of local laws, and a strategic approach to negotiations. Although Alberta gives landlords considerable freedom in setting rules regarding pets, there are many opportunities to successfully find suitable housing.

The key to success is to demonstrate responsibility, transparency, and a willingness to compromise. By utilizing available resources and support programs, Ukrainian newcomers can find safe and comfortable housing for themselves and their faithful companions.

Remember: Patience and persistence are key factors in this process. With the right approach and preparation, you will be able to find a home where both you and your pets will feel comfortable and safe in your new country.