Landlord Question and Answer Forum

I recently posted a single family home for rent on Craig's List. I have gotten quite a few requests asking whether we will allow pets. I am OK with the right pets. I am wondering what I should charge for the pet security deposit. $200 or $300 per pet does not seem like enough if the pet does much damage at all. I am thinking about charging 2 months rent as the security deposit for someone with pets. Is that allowed?

It may be allowed by law but not sure the market will allow it. If I am understanding your post correctly you would require upto four months rent in the form of the 1st months rent and security deposits for a tenant with pets to move into your property. That is a bit excessive. You would be better off just saying pets not allowed.

Posted by Daryl J, DC on Wednesday, May 21, 2014

It would be 3 months rent. 2 months rent for the security deposit and the first months rent to move in. They get it all back when they move out if there is no damage from the pet. Whatever we don't need to use if there is damage gets returned to the tenant. I think I will make some calls to see what other landlords are charging in this area.

Posted by Linda M, MD on Thursday, May 22, 2014