For renters with pets, finding an apartment in Pittsburgh requires understanding the policies that landlords use to manage animal residents. Pet policies vary widely across the city, with different fee structures, deposit requirements, breed restrictions, and weight limits depending on the property and management company. Knowing what to expect can help you budget accurately and avoid surprises during the application process.
Pet Fees and Deposits: Common Structures
Pittsburgh landlords typically charge a combination of one-time fees and recurring monthly charges for pets.
One-time pet fees are the most common charge. These fees are generally non-refundable and cover the additional wear and tear that pets may cause. In Pittsburgh, one-time pet fees typically range from $150 to $350 per pet. Some properties charge a flat fee regardless of pet type, while others differentiate between cats and dogs.
Monthly pet rent is a recurring charge added to your base rent. This is distinct from a deposit and is not refundable. Monthly pet rent in Pittsburgh generally ranges from $30 to $70 per pet. Some landlords charge per pet, while others charge a single monthly fee for the household.
Pet deposits are less common than fees but do exist. Unlike non-refundable fees, deposits are refundable if no damage occurs. However, Pennsylvania law treats pet deposits as security deposits, meaning they fall under the same legal limits and rules. Proposed legislation in Pennsylvania would prohibit landlords from characterizing any security deposit, including pet deposits, as non-refundable.
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Pet Screening and Application Requirements
Many Pittsburgh landlords now require pet applicants to complete a PetScreening profile for each pet. This third-party service evaluates pet-related risk and can determine the pet deposit and pet rent amounts. Some properties may charge a fee for this screening.
Landlords may also require:
- Current veterinary identification and vaccination documents
- Proof that the pet is spayed or neutered
- A history of no aggressive behavior
Breed Restrictions and Weight Limits
Breed restrictions are common in Pittsburgh rentals, often driven by insurance company requirements. Commonly restricted breeds include:
- Pit Bull Terriers and Staffordshire Terriers
- Doberman Pinschers
- Rottweilers
- German Shepherds
- Chow Chows
- Akitas
- Alaskan Malamutes
- Wolf hybrids
- Mastiffs
- Presa Canarios
Some landlords restrict all dogs of a certain breed, while others prohibit any dog mixed predominantly with a listed breed. Weight limits are also common, typically ranging from 20 to 100 pounds per pet.
Pet limits are usually two pets per apartment, though some properties allow fewer.
Legal Considerations for Assistance Animals
Assistance animals, including service animals and emotional support animals, are not considered pets under federal and Pennsylvania law. Landlords cannot charge pet deposits or pet rent for approved assistance animals. The Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh requires residents with assistance animals to complete registration forms but does not require a deposit.
Pennsylvania’s Assistance and Service Animal Integrity Act addresses misrepresentation of animals as assistance animals, with penalties for falsely claiming an animal qualifies as a service or assistance animal.
Key Takeaways
| Aspect | Typical Range in Pittsburgh |
|---|---|
| One-time pet fee | $150 to $350 per pet |
| Monthly pet rent | $30 to $70 per pet |
| Pet deposit | Varies; treated as security deposit |
| Pet limit | Usually 2 per apartment |
| Weight limit | 20 to 100 pounds |
| Breed restrictions | Pit Bulls, Rottweilers, German Shepherds, and others |
| Pet screening | Often required through PetScreening |
Before signing a lease, ask the landlord for a complete written breakdown of all pet-related fees, monthly charges, and restrictions. Clarify whether deposits are refundable and what the specific breed and weight policies are. Understanding these policies in advance helps you budget accurately and ensures a smooth transition for you and your pet.
Renting in the Pittsburgh area?
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Common questions about renting in Pittsburgh
How do I find houses and apartments for rent in Pittsburgh?
Start on our available rentals page, or see an overview of houses and apartments for rent in Pittsburgh. Tell us your budget and preferred neighborhoods and we will match you with homes that fit.
Which areas around Pittsburgh do you serve?
We cover the Greater Pittsburgh area, including city neighborhoods and nearby communities like Bellevue, McKees Rocks, Penn Hills, and Verona. The full list is on our homepage.
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Find a home you like on the rentals page and submit an application with your details, income, and rental history. We review it quickly and follow up with next steps.
Are utilities included?
We typically do not include utilities. For most rentals, electric, gas, water, and trash are the tenant's responsibility. Each listing notes anything that is included.
Do you allow pets?
Pet policies vary by property. Some rentals allow pets, sometimes with a deposit or monthly pet rent. Check the listing or ask us about a specific home.
Can I refer someone and get paid?
Yes. If you refer a tenant who signs a lease with us, we pay you $100. See our referral page for details.
How do I contact Ultrarix Capital Partners?
Call +1-650-254-6706 or email [email protected]. We are a Pittsburgh based property management company at 725 School St, McKees Rocks, PA 15136.