Pets in Condos vs Apartments: Newfoundland & Labrador Rules

Deciding to have a pet in your rental home is a big responsibility, whether you live in a condo or an apartment. In Newfoundland and Labrador, specific rules apply—and they can affect your lease, your living arrangement, and your rights as a tenant. Understanding the differences between condo and apartment pet policies helps you make informed choices and avoid unwanted surprises. This guide breaks down what tenants need to know, including your legal protections, how rules are enforced, and practical next steps if you encounter problems.

Condo vs Apartment Pet Rules: What’s the Difference?

Both condos and apartments are popular options for renters in Newfoundland and Labrador, but their pet policies can differ because of who sets the rules.

• Apartments: Pet policies are set by the landlord and included in the rental agreement. Landlords may allow, restrict, or ban pets, as long as the rules are clear in your lease.
• Condominiums: Pet rules are set by the condominium corporation through their bylaws, which all unit owners (and their tenants) must follow. Restrictions can include types, size, or even outright bans on pets, regardless of the landlord’s preferences.

In both situations, your rights and obligations are shaped by Newfoundland and Labrador’s Residential Tenancies Act^[1] and, if you rent a condo, the Condominium Act, 2009^[2].

Key Rules for Pets in Newfoundland and Labrador Rentals

Let’s break down the main legal considerations for tenants with pets:

• Lease Provisions: Landlords can include a “no pets” clause in your lease. If agreed to, this clause is enforceable, except for legitimate service animals or assistance animals covered under human rights legislation.
• Condo Bylaws: Condo bylaws often have stricter pet rules than apartments. Tenants must abide by these rules, even if their landlord allows pets in principle.
• Existing Pets: If you had a pet before moving in, but the building changes its rules, the outcome depends on your lease terms and the timing of rule changes. Check with the Residential Tenancies Office.
• Service and Support Animals: Newfoundland and Labrador’s Human Rights Act protects people with disabilities who require service animals. Landlords and condo corporations usually must accommodate these tenants, even if a "no pets" rule exists, unless undue hardship can be shown.

How Pet Policies Are Enforced

If your landlord or condominium corporation objects to a pet and you believe you are within your rights, you can challenge the decision. These disputes are generally resolved through the Residential Tenancies Office (RTO), which handles tenant-landlord matters in this province.

Forms and How to File a Complaint or Dispute

• Application for Dispute Resolution (Form A): This form is used for a variety of tenant-landlord issues—including disagreements over pet policies. For example, if you are facing eviction due to a dispute about your pet, you can use Form A to request a hearing. Access official forms here.
• Human Rights Complaint: If your right to a service animal is in question, contact the Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission for guidance and complaint forms.

Example: If your landlord serves you a notice to remove your pet, but you have a legal right to keep it (for example, it is a registered service animal), you should:

• Communicate in writing with your landlord explaining your position.
• Collect relevant documentation (e.g., proof of service animal status, copy of lease/bylaws).
• File Form A with the RTO to challenge the action.

Tenant Rights and Responsibilities: A Quick Reference

Having a pet does not excuse tenants from general responsibilities under their lease. This includes preventing property damage and making sure your pet does not disturb other residents. Learn more about shared duties with Obligations of Landlords and Tenants: Rights and Responsibilities Explained.

If you’re preparing to move in or out and have a pet, it’s wise to document the property’s condition and any pet-related cleaning. For more advice, see Essential Tips for Tenants When Moving Into a New Rental Home.

For those searching for a new rental that welcomes pets, you can Search pet-friendly rentals on Houseme.ca. This platform lets you find rentals tailored to pet owners, helping you avoid surprises down the road.

To read more about your rights as a tenant in your province, visit Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pets in Rentals

1. Can my landlord refuse to rent to me because I have a pet?
   Yes, unless you need a service or assistance animal for medical reasons protected by human rights law, landlords and condo corporations can legally refuse to allow pets if the rule is stated in your lease or building bylaws.
2. Are service animals allowed if there is a "no pets" rule?
   Yes. Service animals (and, in many cases, emotional support animals) must be accommodated for people with disabilities, except in rare cases of undue hardship. Be prepared to provide documentation if needed.
3. What should I do if a condo board tries to evict me over a pet?
   You should promptly review your lease and the building bylaws, gather supporting documents, and apply to the Residential Tenancies Office using Form A to resolve the dispute.
4. Can pet damage affect my security deposit?
   Yes. Damage caused by pets can be deducted from your security deposit. Keeping detailed records and addressing any pet messes quickly can help protect your deposit.
5. If my landlord allows pets but the condo board does not, which rule applies?
   The condo board's bylaws take precedence. You must follow the building's rules regardless of your landlord's preference.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• Always check your lease and, if renting in a condo, the bylaws for specific pet rules.
• Strict “no pet” rules can be enforced in new leases, with exceptions for service animals.
• For disputes, apply to the Residential Tenancies Office using official forms and keep records of all communications.

Understanding and following pet policies can help prevent disputes and provide a better living experience for both you and your pet.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants

• Residential Tenancies Office – For disputes, forms, and guidance
• Read the Residential Tenancies Act – Full legislation
• Condominium Act, 2009 – Bylaws and condo-specific rules
• NL Human Rights Commission – Support for discrimination or accommodation issues
• Learn about broad tenant rights in Tenant Rights and Landlord Rights in Newfoundland and Labrador

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1. Residential Tenancies Act, SNL 2000, c R-14.1
2. Condominium Act, 2009, SNL 2009, c C-29.1

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