Can you have pets if you rent?

Tenants can’t have a dog or domestic animal unless they hold a responsible animal guardianship certificate and can care for the animal. If living in the rental accommodation puts the animal at risk, or causes danger or nuisance to people nearby, they will not be allowed.

Can a landlord charge a pet deposit and rent?

Based on state laws, there are a variety of options landlords have when deciding to charge pet fees, deposits, and rent. It is possible for landlords to charge pet rent, a security deposit, a pet deposit, and a pet fee on top of the monthly cost of rent.

How much does it cost to deposit a pet deposit?

If non-refundable pet fees are not allowed in your state, then make sure your rent and security deposit amounts accurately reflect any additional costs you may incur from allowing pets. Pet deposits range from $100 to $300, but are generally proportional to the overall rent in your particular region.

Can a landlord charge for a service animal?

Keep in mind that neither service animals nor support animals are considered pets according to fair housing law, and you cannot charge upfront pet-related fees based on a tenant’s use of a service animal, even if you have a no-pets policy. How much should a landlord charge for pets?

Can a security deposit be used for pet damage?

It is possible to use the security deposit to cover the repair costs for pet damage if you don’t charge a pet deposit or pet fee. If you decide to charge a pet deposit and/or pet fee, beware that some states don’t allow landlords to use money from the security deposit for any pet damage.

How much does a landlord charge for a pet deposit?

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. In Seattle, for instance, landlords can charge up to 25% of one month’s rent for a pet deposit, in addition to the security deposit and other fees.

Can a landlord charge for a security deposit?

Some states also dictate how landlords can use security deposits. In some states, such as California, landlords may not charge more than a specified amount (such as one or two months’ rent) as a deposit.

It is possible to use the security deposit to cover the repair costs for pet damage if you don’t charge a pet deposit or pet fee. If you decide to charge a pet deposit and/or pet fee, beware that some states don’t allow landlords to use money from the security deposit for any pet damage.

Keep in mind that neither service animals nor support animals are considered pets according to fair housing law, and you cannot charge upfront pet-related fees based on a tenant’s use of a service animal, even if you have a no-pets policy. How much should a landlord charge for pets?