Breaching Tenancy Agreement: What Happens When You Bring Pets into Your Rental Property
If you`re a tenant who`s thinking about getting a furry friend to keep you company in your rental property, it`s essential to know what your tenancy agreement says about pets before you make any impulsive decisions. Many landlords have specific rules regarding pets, and breaching them can have serious consequences. In this article, we`ll discuss what can happen when you bring a pet into your rental property and how to avoid breaching your tenancy agreement.
What is a Tenancy Agreement?
Before we dive into the specifics of pet policies, let`s talk about what a tenancy agreement is. A tenancy agreement is a legally binding contract between a landlord and a tenant. It outlines the terms and conditions of a rental agreement, including the rent amount, lease terms, and tenant responsibilities. Most tenancy agreements also have specific clauses regarding pets.
What Are the Typical Pet Policies in a Tenancy Agreement?
Every tenancy agreement is unique, but there are a few common pet policies that landlords include. The most common ones are:
1. No pets allowed: This policy means that tenants are not allowed to bring any pets into the rental property.
2. Specific pets allowed: In this policy, landlords might allow specific types of pets, such as small dogs or cats. They may also have restrictions on the number of pets allowed.
3. Pet deposit: In some cases, landlords may ask for a pet deposit to cover any damages caused by the pet.
What Happens if You Breach the Pet Policy?
If you break your tenancy agreement`s pet policy, your landlord has the right to take legal action against you. Here are the most common consequences of breaching a pet policy:
1. Payment of fines: If your landlord discovers that you have a pet in the rental property, they may charge you additional fees or fines.
2. Forced removal of pets: Your landlord can also have your pet removed from the property if they find out that you`ve breached the pet policy. In some cases, they may even ask you to move out.
3. Termination of lease: If you repeatedly breach the pet policy, your landlord may decide to terminate your lease agreement, and you`ll be legally obligated to vacate the property.
How to Avoid Breaching Your Tenancy Agreement
To prevent breaching your tenancy agreement, it’s essential to follow these tips:
1. Read the tenancy agreement carefully: Make sure you thoroughly read and understand the pet policy in your tenancy agreement before bringing a pet into the property.
2. Ask permission: Always ask your landlord for permission before bringing a pet to your rental property, even if you think it’s allowed.
3. Follow the pet policies: Once you receive permission, make sure to follow the pet policies stated in the agreement. Train your pet to behave properly, clean up after them, and avoid causing any damage to the property.
Final Thoughts
Pets can bring immense joy and comfort, but it is crucial to follow your tenancy agreement’s pet policies to avoid breaching your agreement. Breaking the pet policy can result in serious consequences, including fines, forced removal of pets, and even eviction. By reading and following your tenancy agreement`s pet policy, you can ensure that you and your furry friend can enjoy your rental home without any issues.