Finding a home that welcomes both you and your pet can be a challenge, especially in a popular neighborhood like Besant Nagar in Chennai. Known for its sandy shores and friendly atmosphere, Besant Nagar attracts young professionals, families, and retirees alike. But when you have a cat, dog, or other furry friend, you need more than just a beautiful view—you need an apartment that understands the needs of your pet. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to secure a pet-friendly apartment in Besant Nagar, from understanding local rental trends to negotiating the best lease for you and your companion.
Why Besant Nagar Is Great for Pet Owners
Besant Nagar is an upscale, coastal neighborhood in South Chennai with a laid-back vibe and plenty of outdoor spaces for pets to enjoy. Its most famous attraction, Edward Elliot’s Beach—popularly called Elliot’s Beach or “Bessie”—offers a wide, sandy shoreline ideal for morning walks and playtime with your dog. Nearby, the Shrines of Our Lady of Good Health and the Ashtalakshmi Temple provide scenic backdrops for a leisurely stroll with your cat in a secure carrier .
The neighborhood also boasts several parks and tree-lined avenues where pets can socialize (under leash control) and burn off energy. From the spacious 6th Avenue to the quieter residential lanes, you’ll find plenty of spots to bond with your pet while staying close to all urban comforts.
Understanding Pet Policies in Besant Nagar Rentals
Common Pet Restrictions
Landlords in Chennai often have strict pet policies. While some smaller, independent buildings may allow pets with no extra fees, many gated communities and service apartments prohibit animals due to concerns about noise, hygiene, and potential damage. Always check the listing’s “amenities” or “house rules” section for “pets allowed” before scheduling a viewing.
Documentation and Deposits
Even when pets are allowed, landlords typically require:
- Pet Passport or Vaccination Records: To prove your pet is healthy and up-to-date on shots.
- Security Deposit: Often an additional one- to two-month deposit to cover any possible damage.
- Behaviour Certificate: A simple note from your vet or previous landlord confirming your pet’s good behavior can increase your chances of approval.
Steps to Finding Your Pet-Friendly Apartment
1. Leverage Online Rental Portals
Websites like , MagicBricks, and 99acres offer filter options for “pets allowed”. For instance, shows the average rent for a 1 BHK in Besant Nagar is around ₹73,333 per month—filtering for pet-friendly units can narrow down your search to the handful of apartments that welcome animals .
2. Join Local Community Groups
Facebook groups such as “Pet Friendly Rentals Chennai” often have posts from owners specifically seeking pet owners or tenants willing to pay extra for pet accommodation . You can post your requirements—mentioning your pet’s breed, size, and temperament—to get direct leads.
3. Visit Service Apartments
Some service apartments in Besant Nagar explicitly allow pets. For example, Pajasa Apartments markets its Besant Nagar locations as pet-friendly, offering flexible leases for up to a year and all the comforts of home for both you and your pet.
4. Work with Niche Brokers
Agents specializing in pet-friendly properties can save you time. They usually have a small portfolio of landlord contacts open to pets and can negotiate pet clauses in the lease on your behalf.
5. Create a Pet Resume
A Pet Resume showcasing your pet’s vaccination history, training certificates, and even a photo can reassure a skeptical landlord. Highlight any obedience training, neutering/spaying status, and prior rental history if available.
6. Negotiate Lease Terms
If a landlord is hesitant, offer to pay a slightly higher security deposit (e.g., 1.5× standard deposit) or agree to professional carpet cleaning at move-out. This goodwill gesture often seals the deal.
Budgeting for Pet-Friendly Rentals
Rents in Chennai have surged citywide, with 1 BHK units nearly doubling over the past two years due to increased demand and limited supply . In Besant Nagar, expect to pay:
- 1 BHK: ₹60,000–₹80,000 per month in pet-friendly buildings.
- 2 BHK: ₹80,000–₹1,20,000 per month.
- Service Apartments: ₹1,20,000–₹1,75,000 per month, often including utilities and cleaning services .
Factor in additional pet-related costs: monthly grooming, veterinarian visits, and any pet deposit amortized over the lease period.
Top Amenities for Pet Owners
When choosing an apartment, prioritize:
- Proximity to Elliot’s Beach: A quick 5–10 minute walk to the shoreline for daily exercise.
- Nearby Veterinary Clinics: At least two good clinics within a 5 km radius.
- Secure Balconies or Terraces: With high railings or netting to prevent falls.
- Pet Wash Area: Some service apartments include pet washing stations.
- Green Spaces: Even small pocket parks offer daily enrichment.
Sample Pet-Friendly Apartments
- Pajasa Service Apartments: Pets allowed; fully furnished; flexible lease.
- Independent Floors on 6th Avenue: Owners sometimes advertise directly with no brokerage, asking ₹30,000–₹40,000 for semi-furnished 1 BHKs that welcome small pets .
- Sulekha Listings: Several 3 BHK flats in RBI Quarters are advertised as pet-friendly, with marble flooring and partial power backup—ideal for larger breeds .
Tips for Maintaining a Happy Home and Landlord Relationship
- Clean Up After Your Pet: Always dispose of waste properly and keep common areas tidy.
- Regular Grooming: Minimize shedding and odors.
- Noise Control: Train dogs to reduce barking, especially during odd hours.
- Routine Inspections: Offer bi-monthly checks so the landlord feels informed.
- Renewal Incentives: For lease renewals, offer to pre-pay or sign a longer-term lease at a slight premium.
Conclusion
Securing a pet-friendly apartment in the coveted neighborhood of Besant Nagar may require extra effort, but the reward is well worth it. By using the right online filters, networking in local groups, preparing a convincing pet resume, and budgeting for current rental trends, you’ll be on your way to a home that both you and your pet truly love. Remember, clear communication with potential landlords and demonstrating responsible pet ownership can open doors that might otherwise remain closed. Happy house-hunting!
Source : Fulinspace.com
