Keeping terrarium animals in rented accommodation – what you need to know as a tenant

Do you love exotic animals and finally want to fulfill your dream of setting up a terrarium in your rented apartment? But maybe you’re also wondering how this fits in with your tenancy agreement and your landlord. Don’t worry – you’re not alone with these questions! In this article, we explain what you should bear in mind as a tenant if you want to keep terrarium animals in your rented apartment and how you can avoid potential conflicts with your landlord.

Your right to small animals in the rented apartment

First of all, the good news: you are generally allowed to keep most small animals, including many terrarium animals, in your rented apartment without having to ask your landlord for permission. These include, for example, small reptiles, amphibians and insects. These animals are considered unproblematic because they do not cause any noise nuisance or damage to the apartment – provided, of course, that the terrarium is well set up.

Rule of thumb for weighing up:

A rule of thumb that is often used is that animals that live in a closed container (such as a terrarium or aquarium) and that have no impact on the rental property or the neighbors are generally allowed. However, in the case of larger or exotic animals, the landlord should always be consulted.

Examples:

• Small lizards (e.g. geckos): Generally unproblematic.
• Large snakes (e.g. boas): Consent of the landlord required.
• Spiders or insects: Usually no problem, but the landlord should be informed in the case of poisonous species.
• Tortoises: Depends on the species and size; smaller species are often unproblematic, for large tortoises the landlord should be informed.

But before you go out and buy your new pet, you should definitely take a look at your tenancy agreement. Sometimes there are clauses in there that restrict or prohibit the keeping of animals. But don’t panic: Such clauses are often void if they apply across the board to all animals. So, read the contract carefully and, if in doubt, seek legal advice.

Consent requirement for larger terrarium animals in the rented apartment

However, if you are planning a larger or more exotic animal, such as a larger snake, lizard or even exotic mammals, then you may need the consent of your landlord. The landlord has the right to be informed and can withhold their consent if they have reasonable concerns – for example, about possible damage to the apartment or safety.

Open dialog is the key here. Sit down with your landlord, explain which animal you would like to keep and how you can ensure that there are no problems. Written permission gives you and your landlord peace of mind.

Your obligations as a tenant when keeping terrarium animals in the rented apartment

If you keep a terrarium animal in your home, you are also responsible for ensuring that the animal does not cause any damage. This means that the terrarium must be secure, moisture must not penetrate the floor and your animals must not cause unpleasant smells or noise that could disturb the neighbors.

Of course, you are also responsible for ensuring that your animals are kept in a species-appropriate manner. This is not only important for the well-being of the animals, but also for peaceful coexistence with your flatmates and neighbors. If there are still problems, the landlord can demand that you remove the animal – in the worst case, this could even be grounds for termination.

What your landlord is allowed to do – and what not

Your landlord cannot simply prohibit the keeping of animals arbitrarily. He must have understandable reasons for saying no. For example, if he fears that the animal will cause damage to the apartment or disturb the neighbors. However, they may not simply refuse their consent on principle.

If you are unsure whether your landlord can legally enforce his refusal, it is worth seeking legal advice. Because even as a tenant, you have rights that need to be protected.

Avoid and resolve conflicts

Sometimes conflicts cannot be avoided. If a dispute arises over the keeping of terrarium animals, try to remain calm and objective. It often helps to talk things over and try to find a solution together that is acceptable to both sides. If this does not work, you can contact a tenant protection organization or seek legal assistance.

Conclusion

Keeping terrarium animals in a rented apartment is often not a problem as long as you follow a few important rules. Take a close look at your tenancy agreement, speak openly with your landlord and make sure that your animals don’t cause any damage or disturb the neighbors. With a little preparation and consideration, nothing will stand in the way of your hobby – and you can concentrate fully on caring for your fascinating terrarium animals.

If you have any further questions, please leave them in the comments below the article.