News-Magazine
Keeping terrarium animals in rented accommodation – what you need to know as a tenant
Aug
Do you love exotic animals and finally want to fulfil your dream of installing a terrarium in your rented flat? 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 flat and how you can avoid potential conflicts with your landlord.
Your right to small animals in the rented flat
First of all, the good news: You are generally allowed to keep most small animals, including many terrarium animals, in your rented flat 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 flat – 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 rented property or the neighbours are generally permitted. 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 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 required for larger terrarium animals in the rented flat
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 your landlord’s consent. The landlord has the right to be informed and can withhold their consent if they have reasonable concerns – for example, because of possible damage to the flat or safety.
Open dialogue 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 flat
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 any unpleasant odours or noise that could disturb the neighbours.
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 welfare of the animals, but also for peaceful coexistence with your flatmates and neighbours. Should problems nevertheless arise, the landlord can demand that you remove the animal – in the worst case, this can 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 flat or disturb the neighbours. 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 doesn’t work, you can contact a tenant protection organisation or seek legal advice.
Conclusion
Keeping terrarium animals in a rented flat 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 neighbours. 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.
