Free Pet Addendum to a Rental Agreement Template

A pet addendum is a short document that updates an existing lease to allow a tenant to keep a pet at the rental property. Once both the landlord and tenant sign it, the addendum becomes part of the lease and carries the same legal weight.

Landlords often use a pet addendum when the lease does not mention pets, or when a tenant wants to add a pet after move-in. Instead of creating a brand-new lease, you can attach an addendum to keep everything clear and in writing.

You may want a pet addendum when:

• The lease is silent on pets, or you want to update an older pet clause
• A tenant adopts a new pet during the lease term
• You need clear terms for fees, deposits, damage, and cleanup expectations

If your lease already has a detailed pet section, you may not need a separate addendum. However, many landlords still use one because it makes the rules easier to find, and easier to enforce.

Also, a pet addendum can help you:

• Reduce misunderstandings between landlords and tenants
• Protect the property from preventable damage
• Set a consistent pet policy across units
• Make your rental more appealing to responsible pet owners

If you also need the base contract, you can create a complete lease agreement with Document Genius.

A strong pet addendum should be specific enough that both parties know what’s allowed, what’s not, and what happens if there’s an issue.

Parties and Lease Details

Include the basics that connect the addendum to the lease:

• Landlord and tenant names
• Property address
• Original lease start date (and any other identifying details)

Pet Information

List details about the approved pet, such as:

• Pet name, type (dog, cat, etc.), and breed
• Approximate weight, age, and color
• License or registration number, if required locally

If you do not allow certain pets, you can also list restrictions, such as prohibited breeds, exotic animals, or multiple pets.

Fees, Deposits, and Pet Rent

Spell out all pet-related costs clearly, including:

• One-time pet fee (if any), and whether it is refundable
• Pet deposit amount, and whether it is refundable
• Ongoing pet rent (monthly, weekly, or yearly), if you charge it

Also, clarify how pet-related deposits interact with the security deposit.

Damage and Liability Terms

Most pet addenda include language stating the tenant is responsible for:

• Property damage caused by the pet
• Injuries or losses caused by the pet
• Extra cleaning costs related to pet odor, stains, or waste

Some addenda also include a “hold harmless” style clause to reduce landlord liability. If you need broader coverage for incidents, you may also want a separate release of liability for certain situations.

Compliance and Removal Rules

Your addendum should explain what happens if the tenant breaks the pet rules, for example:

• You may require the tenant to remove the pet
• You may charge for damages beyond normal wear and tear
• Repeated issues may become a lease violation

If the issue escalates, landlords typically follow the same enforcement path used for other lease violations, which may include a notice and possible termination.

Service animals and emotional support animals are not treated the same as pets under many housing rules. In general, landlords cannot charge pet fees, deposits, or pet rent for protected animals as a “reasonable accommodation.”

For more context, see Fair Housing Act protections under 42 U.S.C. § 3604(f) and Americans with Disabilities Act guidance.

A pet addendum works best when it sets expectations that are easy to follow and easy to enforce.

Tenant Responsibilities

Common requirements include:

• The pet must not disturb neighbors or damage the property.
• The tenant must supervise the pet and use a leash, carrier, or fenced area outdoors.
• The tenant must clean up pet waste promptly and dispose of it properly.
• The tenant must keep the pet groomed and up to date on required vaccinations.
• The tenant must follow local laws, HOA rules, and property guidelines related to pets.
• The tenant agrees to be responsible for any damages or injuries caused by the pet.

Landlord Rights

Landlords often reserve the right to:

• Inspect the unit to confirm pet rules are being followed
• Require corrective action if there are complaints or damage issues
• Revoke pet permission if the tenant violates the addendum (when legally allowed)

Bringing in an unapproved pet, or ignoring the addendum’s rules, is usually treated as a lease violation.

Depending on the situation and your local requirements, you may need to:

• Give written notice to correct the issue
• Start the process to terminate a lease agreement
• Use a formal eviction notice if the tenant does not comply