Pet application and agreement forms

Well thought out pet-friendly policies can help ensure that the needs of pet owners and non-pet owners are taken into consideration, with companion animals properly managed and everyone aware of their obligations and responsibilities.

One of the best ways to achieve this is to have a formal process where pets can be approved or disapproved on a case-by-case basis and the rules around pet ownership are clearly communicated. Pet application and agreement forms make this quick and easy to do.

Pet application forms can include a photograph and description of the pet as well as information such as breed, age, vaccination and microchip details as well as references from previous landlords, building managers or veterinarians.

Pet agreement forms can also detail the way the pet will be kept. This can include requirements to ensure the pet doesn’t unreasonably disturb neighbours, as well as keeping the lot clean and the pet free of parasites.

Tips

• A pet application form provides an opportunity for pet owners to present relevant and specific information relating to individual animals. It not only makes it easier for potential pet owners to apply to the owners corporation, but also for the owner’s corporation to have all the information they need to make a decision.
• Assessing pets on their individual merits is a fairer system than some commonly used practices such as weight or size restrictions. A pet application form will reveal whether the animal is responsibly cared for. This information will help the owner’s corporation to assess pets on a case-by-case basis.
• A pet agreement form enables the owner's corporation to clearly detail their expectation of how pets will be kept and managed once they are approved. Such an agreement helps to ensure good communication by having the owner read, understand and agree to a specific set of behaviors around common property, noise and waste management.
• Pet application and agreement forms help to enforce the rules. The agreement may cover noise and disturbance and liability for damage. It might also include a clause that states that in the event of a breach of the agreement, the owner's corporation may withdraw consent for the keeping of the pet.
• It is a good idea to have a system in place to review new applications quickly, as time can be a critical issue for people keen to purchase or secure rental accommodation.

Where to get help

PIASStrata Community Australia in conjunction with the Petcare Information and Advisory Service (PIAS) has developed pet application and agreement forms. These forms can be modified to suit the specific needs of individual strata communities. www.petnet.com.au

Download the PDF version.

Pet_Application_Form.pdf

Or the editable Microsoft Word version.

Pet_Application_Form-Editable.docx

This information is provided as a guide only, it is not a substitute for legal advice. The recipient must at all times comply with local and strata title regulations and any other law.

Ref: Strata Community Aust