Tips for renting pet friendly housing in Canada

In many Canadian cities, pet-friendly places are becoming more and more common and easy to find, except when it comes to renting a family home. In fact, this complicates life for newcomers who do not know the conditions and/or limitations of the rental process in the new country.

At Immiland, we understand that these animals are a member of the family, that's why we created this guide of recommendations and tips for pet owners looking to rent a pet friendly home . Read with me until the end and take note of each recommendation . Read with me to the end and take note of each recommendation. Let's get started!

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Main challenges when renting with pets

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Finding accommodation in Canada to live with your four-legged little one has its complexities and can generate headaches, here I share some of the main challenges:

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1. Pet friendly options are limited: although certain cities in Canada are becoming more pet friendly, many units/properties in cities such as Toronto, Vancouver or Montreal still include restrictions that clearly read. "no pets allowed".
2. There are additional costs: in some Canadian provinces, such as Alberta or British Columbia, it is common to be asked to pay an additional deposit for having a pet (usually refundable), or even a small monthly increase in the value of the rent.
3. There are breed or size restrictions: some properties allow only certain types of pets (e.g., cats or small dogs) and exclude breeds considered "large" or "exotic".

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Recommendations for renting a pet friendly home

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If you are about to move with your pet, either because you are moving to Canada or because you are moving to a new province or city, you should prepare your documents and those of your pet long before you start looking for a new home. To do so:

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1. Prepare a good presentation of your pet! Include a good photo, veterinary history, up-to-date vaccinations and references from the treating veterinarian. This creates a good impression and may influence the approval or disapproval of your little companion.
2. Start your search early: pet-friendly properties tend to be more limited. Searching early gives you more choice.
3. Be flexible with zoning or unit type: sometimes choosing a basement, townhouse or detached house instead of a multi-unit building can make it easier to accept pets.

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Tips not to overlook

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1. Read your lease carefully. Make sure there are no contradictory clauses regarding pets.
2. Consider your pet's needs when looking for nearby green spaces, parks or trails where they can also be comfortable and enjoy themselves.
3. Do not deny that you have a pet because you could face legal problems. Remember that transparency generates trust and is a demonstration of seriousness and commitment, therefore, the doors to receive help in the future may remain open.
4. If you are unable to find pet-friendly housing on your own, seek specialized guidance.

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Settlement services for pet rentals

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At Immiland, we help you find the ideal home for you and your pet. Our Settlement team can identify pet-friendly homes that fit your needs, lifestyle, budget and desired location, so you have nothing to worry about.

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Planning to move to Canada with your pet? Write to us and start your search with the support of professionals who understand what you need. If you wish, you can schedule an appointment here.

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I hope this topic will be of great help to the whole family and especially to your faithful pet. 

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Thank you very much for reading, see you in the next blog!

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With love, 

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Immiland Canada