What is a pet deposit fee?

A pet deposit is a one-time charge that a tenant pays upfront for having a pet live in a rental property. A pet deposit may be refundable depending on if a pet damages the property and how much damage is done.

Do you ever get a pet deposit back?

Under California law, your landlord cannot make your security deposit non-refundable, even if it’s intended to cover pet damage, and the total deposit – not including the first and last month’s rent – can’t exceed the equivalent of two months’ rent if the dwelling is unfurnished.

Why are pet fees so high?

Many states have laws that allow landlords to retain this “deposit” whether or not damage occurs. In these cases, the “deposit” is known as a pet fee. The reasoning is that pets increase the normal wear and tear on an apartment, whether or not they do obvious damage.

How can I avoid paying pet deposit?

If you want to avoid paying pet rent, you can off-fur to pay a larger pet deposit (so you can get your money back if no damage is incurred and your landlord still has a way to pay for any damages that do occur). You can also offer to sign a longer lease (the less time your unit is vacant, the better for your landlord).

How do you get around pet fees?

How much pet rent should I charge?

Generally, landlords charge anywhere from $25 to $100 per month for pet rent. It largely depends on animals allowed, number of pets on the property, and the overall size, value, and condition of the home (meaning how much damage those pets could possibly do). Unlike a pet deposit, pet rent is nonrefundable.

How do you get around paying a pet deposit?

Can landlord say no pets?

The Model Tenancy Agreement wording says pets are allowed by default if a tenant makes a written request to keep one. Landlords can still stop tenants from keeping pets but must offer a reasonable excuse for refusal in writing within 28 days of the tenant’s request.

Can you charge a monthly pet fee?

Pet deposits and fees vary, but typically range from $200 to $500. Landlords may also charge a monthly rate of $25 to $100 for pet rent. Be aware that some states or municipalities have laws that limit the amount you can charge.

Is there a difference between a pet fee and a pet deposit?

The difference between pet deposits and pet fees is that pet deposits are refundable and pet fees aren’t. Some people, however, like to say the pet deposit is non-refundable, which would then make the pet deposit the same as a pet fee.

How much should I charge for a pet deposit?

There’s no wrong way to determine what to charge for a pet deposit . In states that set limits, many landlords charge pet rent. This means they add an amount to the monthly rent for pets. For example, if the rent is $550 per month and the applicant wants to bring in their dog, the landlord would charge an extra amount for that, such as $50 .

Is it legal to charge pet deposit fee?

It’s not always legal for landlords to charge an additional pet deposit or fee. Landlords who allow pets sometimes require tenants to pay a separate deposit to cover any damages caused by the pet. In some states this is legal; in others, it’s not.

Can a landlord charge you a pet deposit and pet?

Depending on where your rental is located, it may be common to ask for both a pet deposit and pet rent when renting to tenants with pets. Some landlords choose to charge a non-refundable pet fee instead of a pet deposit.