Pets are a major part of the family. So, when you move, they're moving too. This is why it's so important to know about your potential complex's pet policy. According to a 2019-2020 APPA National Pet Owners Survey, 67% of US households own a pet, yet it's still quite tricky to find accommodating pet-friendly housing.
When adding a pet to your lease, you should expect to sign additional paperwork, including a pet agreement. Understanding pet deposits and fees can be stressful for first-time renters. Depending on the type of animal you have, the state you live in, and how many pets you own, the pet deposit price may vary. Typically, the larger complexes often allow various pets like dogs, cats, birds, fish, rabbits, reptiles, etc., as opposed to communities with smaller units. It's up to you to do your research on the property before signing on the dotted line, but we're here to make your life easier by walking through some of the most frequently asked questions about rental properties' pet deposits.
What Is a Pet Agreement
A pet agreement specifies that a tenant has permission from the landlord to have a pet living on the property. This portion is usually added to the renter's lease. For this particular agreement, the resident's time on the property is contingent on them abiding by the contract — so stick to the rules! Some standard provisions are also written in pet agreements. Make sure you're reading the contract thoroughly before agreeing to anything. Keep in mind that if this agreement is broken, the landlord has the right to ask that the animal be removed or evict.
Standard provisions that are included in most pet agreements
- Breed restrictions
- Number of pets allowed
- Vaccinations and shots required
- Animal Size
- Pet deposit (if applicable)
- Monthly pet fee (if applicable)
- Renters insurance
- Cleaning and repair clause
- Termination of pet agreement with tenant occupancy termination
- Signature of tenant and landlord
Important to Note: The Fair Housing Act provides exceptions to a "no pet policy" for tenants with emotional support/service animals.
What Is a Pet Deposit and What Does It Cover?
A pet deposit is a one-time charge that a tenant pays upfront for their animal to live on the property. Similar to a regular security deposit, pet deposits pay for property damage and losses caused by pets. It is designed with the hopes of protecting the property. For example, your pet may leave behind urine stains, scratches on wood flooring and doors, or odors. The landlord can hire a cleaning company with funds they deduct from the pet deposit to clean the space when you move out.
Depending on the complex and state, the price can range between $200-$500 per pet. A study from PetFinder shows that the average pet deposit was between 40-85 percent of the rent. Now let's do some math. Say your rent is $1,500 a month, the pet deposit could run you $600 (40% of $1,500) to $1,200 (80% of $1,500). Some states have a cap for how much landlords can charge for pet rent, fees, and deposits. Pet deposits can be fairly expensive, especially if complexes are charging per pet—plan to start saving before the move to cover any pet deposit.
Pros: This should encourage you to keep your place nice and clean, especially if you know that you'll get quite a bit of money back.
Cons: Depending on the agreement, you may not get a full refund.
Do you get pet deposits back?
In most cases, yes, a complex usually offers refundable deposits. Depending on the state law, landlords need a legally sound reason not to return pet deposits. If no damage was caused to the property, the tenant should receive their full deposit back (unless additional cleaning fees were included in the pet agreement). Keep in mind that it's your responsibility as a tenant to speak up and request itemized reports of any repairs and cleaning charges that your landlord claims. Pet rent and pet fees can be considered nonrefundable, but again, depending on the state, some landlords charge a fixed price per pet. Just be sure to check your lease.
What Is a Pet Fee?
Unlike a pet deposit, pet fees are nonrefundable. These are paid upfront and commonly range from $100 -$500 per pet and are kept regardless of any pet damage. These aren't as ideal for renters with numerous fur babies. Pet fees are not legal in every state so it's best to look up pet fees beforehand. California is an excellent example of a state that does not allow landlords to charge a pet fee. Cali residents, don’t celebrate just yet. Property owners can still charge a deposit or pet rent, so you're not off the hook.
Pros:This will be a one-time charge, so renters won't have to worry about multiple payments.
Cons: These can get expensive, and sadly, you won't get that money back.
What Is Pet Rent?
More property owners are regarding pets as additional tenants, hence the pet rent. Pet rent is a monthly recurring charge that tenants pay regardless of pet damage. Pet rent can range from $25-$50 per pet per month.
Pros: Some landlords may be more lenient when it comes to renters with multiple pets. Pet rent can cover any damage to landscape, hallways, or lobbies.
Cons: This extra fee adds up over the months, so it may not be ideal for folks with multiple animals.
Moving to a pet-friendly community is exciting. Now you can worry less about understanding pet deposits and fees and more about decorating your new space for you and your fur babies.
