Can I keep pets in a rented flat?
It depends on the contract: the landlord can ban pets via a clause, but the association can't, generally. The tenancy contract is "the law of the parties": the landlord can insert a clause banning pets in the home, and if you sign, you're bound by it. So read the contract before signing. On the other hand, the owners' association cannot generally ban keeping pets in flats — the right of ownership (and use) includes the option to keep a pet, as long as it doesn't unjustifiably affect the other residents. The law sets that a home can't house more than two dogs or two cats. The owner must observe the rules of cohabitation: cleanliness in common areas, no excessive noise and no unjustified discomfort for neighbours.
📋 The rules
- The landlord can ban pets via a clause in the contract
- A signed clause binds you — read the contract
- The association can't ban pets generally
- At most two dogs or two cats in a home
- Duties: cleanliness, no noise and no neighbour discomfort
🔓 Exceptions
- No ban clause in the contract: you can keep pets
- Local rules requiring neighbour/association consent, in some cities
- Pets causing unjustified discomfort: can trigger conflicts
⚠️ Penalties & fines
If you breach a contract clause banning pets, the landlord can seek termination of the contract and eviction, under the conditions set in the contract and the Civil Code. Breaching the rules of cohabitation (mess in common areas, noise, discomfort) can bring neighbour reports and, where applicable, sanctions under Law 61/1991 or local regulations. Exceeding the legal number of animals (over two dogs or two cats) can also be sanctioned. To avoid trouble: check whether the contract has a pet clause and negotiate it in advance; if you're allowed pets, observe the rules of cleanliness and quiet, don't exceed the permitted number, and always clean up mess in common areas.
📎 Official sources
- Civil Code · the tenancy contract →
- Law 61/1991 (public order and quiet) →
- Law 230/2007 on owners' associations →
❓ Frequently asked
Can the landlord ban pets in my rental?
Yes, via the contract. The tenancy contract is the law of the parties, and the landlord can insert a clause banning pets in the home. If you sign a contract with such a clause, you're bound by it. That's why you should read the contract carefully before signing it.
Can the owners' association ban pets?
Not generally. Romanian law doesn't give owners' associations the right to generally ban keeping pets in flats. The right of ownership and use includes the option to keep a pet, as long as it doesn't unjustifiably affect the other residents' rights and the rules of cohabitation are observed.
How many pets can I keep in one home?
The law sets that a home can't house more than two dogs or two cats. This threshold aims to avoid discomfort for neighbours and to ensure decent conditions for the animals. Exceeding the permitted number can bring reports and, where applicable, sanctions under the rules in force.
What duties do I have keeping a pet in a block?
You must observe the rules of cohabitation: keep common areas clean, avoid excessive noise and any unjustified discomfort for neighbours. If the animal soils common areas, you must clean up. These rules protect the quiet and hygiene of the residents' community.
What do I risk if I breach the contract clause?
If you keep pets despite a clause banning them, the landlord can seek termination of the contract and eviction, under the conditions of the contract and the Civil Code. So it's important to clarify this before signing and, if you want pets, to negotiate a clause that allows them.
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