Legal Question in Landlord & Tenant Law in Florida
Any advice would be GREATLY APPRECIATE as I have to act quickly. Long story short, I found an apartment via Trulia. Went and viewed it. Was offered the space by the property manager as she manages the property for a 92 year old elderly woman. I filled out the application on 4/20. Gave her my credit report. She accepted it all - I cleared approval for the space. She sent me the lease on April 27. I signed it on the 29th in front of her. Gave her first months and security deposit. She said she'd get owner to sign soon. My lease commenced on May 1. She cashed the checks on the 3rd. I just moved into an apartment. Here's the deal: On Trulia, there was no mention if it was pet-friendly or not. The rental application asked if I had a pet. I wrote all about him on my application as I have a family dog that comes over frequently and explained the situation - and specifically said "let me know if this is going to be a problem". Never heard anything from her. Was given the lease - nothing mentioned in the lease either way about pets. So, I assumed it was all ok. Fast forward to yesterday, I come downstairs with our dog - and get reamed by a neighbor that they don't allow any dogs in the building unless it's an owners dog. She ended up calling the owner directly. The owner wasn't happy. The property manager texted me - "please give me a call. neighbor mentioned there's a dog on the property - and as you know it's not pet friendly." Apparently the association of the building doesn't allow renters (i'm assuming short term renters) to have dogs but you can if you are an owner. The problem is it is next to impossible to find another place in this area - and I own a small business where I work 16-18 hour days and need to be close by. Legally what are my options? Does her cashing my check imply acceptance of the lease on her end even if I don't have a signed copy from the landlord? As well, can I legally have my dog there if there's nothing written in the lease and she had prior knowledge of the situation?
1 Answer from Attorneys
I believe you may keep the dog as there is no mention of NO PETS - only something about owners only - renters unknown. However you did inform them and the manager is the person who allowed as you signed the lease with her and she is representing the owner.