Landlord Question and Answer Forum

How do I charge for pets. more than one. should I charge rent. Have a weight limit?

The PET DEPOSIT MAY BE: non-refundable in addition to your security deposit which is limited by state law. unrealistic permitted by state law may not be charged if you have a service animal (certified for your disability). Exemptions exist. any amount agreed to by you and your landlord non-discriminatory based on size of pet based on number of pets based on type of pet charged to people who think their pet is the best

Posted by Luis M, NJ on Friday, February 24, 2012

I beleive charging for pets is pure greed. Pets can caused damage but that is why you have a secuity deposit. You don't charge for each child! Children are detructive. Just charge a decent security deposit. Rent for pets... who thought of that. It is discrimination. Do you charge for smokers? Do you charge for people who use alot of curry? I will never charge my tenants nor will I every lease a place that does. INSANE.

Posted by Larry A, CA on Monday, February 27, 2012

Pets leave hair, dander, saliva, and fecal deposits behind that may not be completely cleaned up by their owners, not to mention the extra wear & tear such as caused by running pets digging their nails on wood floors and any number of kinds of damage that pets owners run into. Some people will not rent unless it's been a pet free environment, just like most people prefer a smoke free environment. To say it's pure greed is avoiding the issues.

Posted by Thomas C, NY on Monday, February 27, 2012

I didn't charge a pet deposit and low and behold I had to replace subfloors and ALL the carpet in the entire apartment due to dog piss and cat piss... not to metion my apartment was infested with fleas. There is a big differance between a responsible pet owner who has vet records and takes care of their pets. To those who do not take their pets to the vet they ar flea infested. I feel if pet owners don't want to pay a pet deposit - Buy your OWN house and let your animals destroy your house!!

Posted by Melissa B, NY on Monday, February 27, 2012

If you don’t charge a pet deposit, you’re (1) a renter with 1 or more pets and had /have a hard time finding a place, (2) you’re a 1st time landlord and never rented to anyone with pets and (3) possible never inspected the rental since renting to someone with pets. As to “rents to pets” – hotels. Smoker? Moot point! CA law state Landlords are not required to rent to smokers. Insane? No, experienced Landlord.

Posted by Bob R, CA on Wednesday, February 29, 2012