PET RENT
In most states, there is no law prohibiting a landlord from charging an extra fee each month for a pet . This additional fee may be considered PET RENT.
The monthly PET RENT may be in addition to a PET SECURITY DEPOSIT – often labeled non-refundable.
When you sign a lease to rent a unit, landlords often require you to state the names of the people living in the household. Landlords may also state a lease rate is for one or 2 people. Above that, they may charge for each additional person -where permitted by law.
FEES FOR PETS
Landlords take this approach with pet owners by charging an additional fee each month for each pet.
If you have a certified service animal that lives with you to assist you in your disability, this additional rent may not be permitted.
Certain types of properties may be exempt from this ruling.
Landlords charge extra each month for pets to cover such items as:
- extra cleaning and maintenance costs to the entire building
- repairs to your unit from your pet/LI>
- maintaining the grounds your pet walks on/LI>
- increased insurance costs/LI>
The TENANT should discuss with the landlord and either have a separate written agreement with the landlord or the terms and conditions of the pet rent should be written in the lease.
NOTE: READ YOUR LEASE AGREEMENT.
In the agreement, it should be stated:
- THE AMOUNT OF THE PET RENT
- THE TYPE OF PET and any other identification
NON-REFUNDABLE PET DEPOSITS
A PET DEPOSIT may be non-refundable. The landlord is telling you upfront that the monies you are giving them WILL NOT BE REFUNDED.
SEE OUR GUIDE ON PET DEPOSITS