February 10, 2026

Tips and tricks for finding a pet-friendly apartment

Quebecers love animals: more than 52% of households report having a pet. For many, a pet isn’t just a companion, it’s a full-fledged member of the family. However, finding an apartment that accepts our four-legged friends (or friends with feathers or scales!) can quickly become a real struggle. Only 41.9% of landlords accept cats, while a mere 4.2% accept dogs.

Did you know that every year, countless animals are abandoned, housing issues being one of the reasons? So far in 2025, 1,200 pets have already been abandoned , compared to around 975 in the same period last year.

Here are some tips and tricks to help you find a rental apartment that allows pets.

Start looking early

Finding a pet-friendly apartment can take longer than expected, especially in a competitive rental market. Ideally, get started at least three to five months before you hope to move. This will give you more time to find suitable apartments, submit strong applications and avoid having to make last-minute compromises. The earlier you get started, the more likely you are to find the perfect place for you and your four-legged friend.

While you’re looking, be open to different neighbourhoods and criteria. A bit of flexibility on certain aspects, like size or amenities, can greatly expand your options and boost your chances of finding a pet-friendly apartment.

	Tips and tricks Don’t forget to submit your notice of non-renewal on time. In Quebec, for a lease of 12 months or more, you must inform your landlord of your intention not to renew the lease at least 3 months before it ends. If possible, find a new apartment before submitting your notice of non-renewal.

Look at listing sites that have the “Pets allowed” search filter

Use platforms that offer a specific search filter to make the process easier.

Use search filters: On classified ad and apartment-hunting sites, use filters like “Pets allowed.”
Join housing-specific groups: Look for local groups, discussion forums or similar spaces to help you.
Let family and friends know: Word of mouth is often underestimated, but it can be very effective. Tell people you know that you’re looking for a pet-friendly apartment. A family member, friend or colleague may know a landlord with an apartment that would be perfect for you or a tenant who is about to leave one. You never know who might put you on the right track!
Visit the websites of animal welfare organizations: Organizations like the Montréal SPCA often have useful resources for tenants with pets. You’ll find practical tips and lists or links to platforms that can help you find a rental apartment that accepts pets.
Target your search: Individual owners (of duplexes, triplexes, townhouses or small buildings) are often more flexible than large property management companies, which generally apply strict, uniform policies. To maximize your chances, focus on buildings where certain types of animals are already permitted or that have a specific size limit. Those places are generally more open to discussion than ones that prohibit animals in all circumstances.

	Tips and tricks Use the “Pets allowed” filter on the Centris.ca website to help you quickly locate apartments that allow you to have furry or feathered friends! You can also work with a real estate broker to search for apartments ! Not only can a broker save you time by focusing on the right properties, they can also access unlisted apartments or negotiate on your behalf in cases where having a pet could be an issue. This makes them a real asset in your search for a welcoming home… for you and your pet!

Be transparent

Don’t wait until the lease is signed to mention your pet. From the very first visit, clearly ask whether pets are allowed. Transparency is essential to establish a relationship of trust with the landlord.

If they seem reluctant, don’t hesitate to ask them if they’ve had a bad experience before. Understanding their concerns can help you respond reassuringly… maybe even find common ground.

Prepare a CV for your pet

Why not prepare a short CV for Fluffy, just like you would for a job? This can make all the difference to a hesitant landlord. Here’s what to include:

Photos of your pet: add some cute photos of Fluffy! If you have a friendly dog, you can even plan a meeting with the landlord.
Description of their behaviour: are they calm, clean, quiet, social?
Veterinary record: without going into details, show that your pet is sterilized, vaccinated and regularly checked by a vet, to demonstrate that you are a responsible pet owner.
Letters of reference: ask your current landlord, neighbours or even a veterinarian or dog trainer to confirm your pet’s good behaviour. You can also include certificates of completion for training courses.
Proof of insurance: “all-risk” home insurance offers coverage for damage caused by a pet . Evidence of this can reassure the landlord. Don’t forget to declare your pet to your insurance company ahead of time.
Photos of the current apartment: it can be reassuring for the owner to see how well you maintain your home and that Fluffy has left it unscathed!

A good CV shows that you take renting seriously and that your pet is a model roommate!

Put your best foot forward

Beyond your pet’s CV, it’s essential to come across as a trustworthy tenant. After all, a good application also (and especially) depends on you. Ask yourself what would make a landlord see you as a good candidate.

Here are a few things to highlight:

Your housing stability: for example, if you have lived in your previous home for several years.
Your job situation: stable employment inspires confidence.
Your impeccable payment history: if you’ve always paid your rent on time, mention this.
Your proactive attitude: offering references and being polite, punctual and organized matters.

These things can reassure a landlord and show that you’re a reliable, attentive and responsible tenant, regardless of whether you have a pet.

	Tips and tricks Did you know you can prepare a complete rental application on Centris.ca through the Tenant Profile? You can include your references, proof of employment, your credit file, and even your pet’s profile (photos, behaviour, etc.). It’s an effective way to submit a professional application and share your sensitive information with the landlord securely.

What to check for when signing the lease

If you’ve finally found the perfect apartment that accepts your pet, here are some things to check and precautions to take.

1. Make sure the building rules don’t say that pets aren’t allowed

Did a third party (like a building manager) show you the rental property and come to a verbal agreement with you about your pet? Make sure you get a copy of the building rules to check that the landlord or condo association doesn’t have a clause prohibiting pets.

2. Confirm that the lease mentions your pet

A written lease protects both the tenant and the landlord. If you’ve obtained verbal permission to live with a pet, make sure this is clearly stated in the lease or in an appendix signed by both parties to avoid ambiguity and protect yourself legally.

You can request to add an explicitly worded clause, such as:

“The tenant is allowed to keep a pet (specify the species and name, if necessary) in the dwelling for the duration of the lease.”

The landlord must give you a copy of the lease.

3. Register your pet

Remember to register your pet to receive a valid municipal tag. This is official proof that your pet is registered.

Know your rights (and responsibilities!) in Quebec

Unlike other aspects of housing law, the Civil Code doesn’t contain specific provisions about pets in apartments. This means that landlords can choose to prohibit all or some pets in the apartment lease , except in certain cases (service dogs, animal therapy with a doctor’s note, etc.).

As a tenant, your responsibilities are the same regardless of whether you have pets. You must use your apartment responsibly, manage noise levels, keep the apartment clean and in good condition and avoid disturbing other tenants. This means you need to make sure to pick up after your pet outdoors, avoid leaving them alone for too long, provide them with enough stimulation to burn off energy, and limit barking.

Renting with a pet: possible with a bit more preparation

Finding a pet-friendly apartment can be a challenge, but is not impossible. With preparation, transparency and the right tools, it’s possible to find a place where the whole family— including members with fur, feathers or scales—will be welcome. Whether you’re perfecting your furry friend’s CV, applying the filters on Centris.ca or using a real estate broker, every step counts when it comes to setting yourself up for success. Start your search for a rental apartment now!

FAQ

1. Is it true that landlords can refuse to allow pets in apartments?

Yes, a landlord may include a clause in the lease prohibiting pets, and the tenant is required to comply with it if they’ve signed it.

2. Are there any exceptions that allow you to keep your pets if a landlord doesn’t allow them?

In some cases, a tenant may be permitted to have a pet for medical or support reasons (e.g., a service dog) if they can provide the necessary supporting documentation.

3. Is it legal to request a security deposit in case of damage?

In Quebec, the law prohibits landlords from requiring a security deposit for a pet or anything else.

4. Is keeping pets in a condo allowed?

For a landlord to say yes to a pet, the condo rules must allow it.