Some landlords are quick to prohibit pets in their properties. Renters say that this can make it harder to find a place to live. Some prospective tenants claim that they would mention owning a dog and certain landlords would just stop talking to them or returning their calls.
But a new bill has been proposed in California, and it would ban this practice, meaning that some landlords could not refuse people for having pets. The bill also says that landlords can’t increase prices for those with pets, such as charging a 10% “pet fee”.
What do proponents say?
Proponents claim this would make it easier for people in California to find affordable housing. They also note that it would help animal shelters, which can become flooded with pets who are dropped off when a landlord says their owners can no longer keep the pets. Additionally, some pet owners already break these regulations, but they may be able to own their pets openly.
What do detractors say?
Detractors talk about two major issues, the first of which is damage to units. Landlords worry about dogs and other large pets causing significant harm and lowering the value of the apartments. They also mention safety issues. One landlord pointed out that he was trying to create a safe space for everyone to live in specifically by screening out “bad people…and bad dogs.”
The bill has not passed yet and may not, but it underscores some of the challenges on both sides of this housing issue. Landlords and tenants alike need to keep an eye on the bill to see if it passes and how it changes their rights and obligations.