Application fees in the U.S. run $35–$85 and are rarely refunded. One short email before you apply saves money and gives you a written record of the pet policy.
Copy, paste, send
Hi — I’m interested in a [studio / 1-bedroom] at [Community] for a move-in around [month]. I have a [age]-year-old [breed / mix], [weight] lb, spayed/neutered, house-trained, with current vaccinations and a Pet Resume I can attach. Before I apply, could you confirm in writing:
- Does the community have any breed restrictions or a weight limit?
- What is the pet deposit, and is it refundable?
- Is there a one-time pet fee? How much?
- What is the monthly pet rent per pet?
- How many pets are allowed per home?
- Is renters insurance required, and is there a minimum liability amount?
- Are there any pet-related rules I should know (pet interview, DNA program, restricted floors)?
Thank you — [Name], [phone]
Why email instead of calling
A phone “yes” is worth nothing on move-in day. A reply from the leasing office’s email address is something you can show a manager if the story changes later. It also forces the office to check the actual policy instead of guessing.
Read the reply carefully
- “No aggressive breeds” without a list means a manager decides case by case — ask for the written list.
- “Pets assessed individually” is good news; ask what the assessment involves.
- Weight limits often sit at 25, 50 or 75 lb — ask whether it applies to full-grown weight and whether exceptions are made with a Pet Resume.
Every community on NuvaPaws has already answered question 1 with “no restrictions” — in writing, on the date shown on the listing. Use this email to confirm the rest.